Family Background and Inheritance

Louis XVI inherited the throne after the deaths of his father and elder brother

Marriage to Marie Antoinette

Intended Alliance with Austria

Louis XVI's marriage to Marie Antoinette was meant to strengthen ties with Austria, but it ultimately contributed to his unpopularity

Financial Challenges and Attempts at Reform

Louis XVI faced a kingdom burdened with debt and attempted to implement reforms to alleviate the financial crisis

Opposition to Reforms and Exile of the Parlement

Louis XVI's attempts at reform were met with resistance from the Assembly of Notables and the Parlement of Paris, leading to his decision to exile the Parlement

Summoning of the Estates-General and the Formation of the National Assembly

The summoning of the Estates-General in 1789 and the formation of the National Assembly marked the beginning of a new political era and the eventual downfall of the monarchy

Escalating Tensions and the Storming of the Bastille

The mobilization of troops and the storming of the Bastille in 1789 weakened royal authority and emboldened the National Assembly to establish a constitutional monarchy

Failed Escape and Loss of Legitimacy

Louis XVI's attempted escape in 1791 and the discovery of his negative views on the revolution further eroded his legitimacy and trust among the public

Arrest and Trial by the National Convention

Louis XVI's arrest and trial by the National Convention in 1792 were prompted by suspicions of his collusion with foreign powers

Discovery of Evidence and Conviction of Treason

The discovery of incriminating documents and the conviction of treason led to Louis XVI's execution by guillotine in 1793

Impact and Legacy of Louis XVI's Death

The execution of Louis XVI sparked widespread conflict and counter-revolutionary movements, and intensified the ongoing wars with European powers