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Unveiling Myths: 9 Misunderstood Events From the French Revolution

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8. The Revolution Immediately Established Democracy

bouchot le general bonaparte au conseil des cinq cents
Napoléon Bonaparte in the Council of 500 during 18 Brumaire, 9 November 1799. Source: François Bouchot / Wikipedia

A widespread misconception is that the French Revolution quickly ushered in democracy. In fact, the aftermath was marked by a string of unstable and contentious governments. Bodies like the National Convention and the Directory struggled for legitimacy and control, often resorting to authoritarian measures. It was only after years of political chaos that Napoleon Bonaparte seized power, effectively ending any immediate hopes for democratic rule. True, enduring democracy in France would not emerge until much later. More on this can be found at History.com.

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