In 1789 the Constituent Assembly began developing a Constitution, because it was what the French people wanted - but their moods quickly changed and the proposed constitution became a calamity

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National Constituent Assembly

        The National Constituent Assembly originated from the National Assembly,  and its purpose was to write a constitution that would create a new France, one that was based on equality, liberty and fraternity - a nation governed by the people, and for the people - where men are born and remain equal in rights.  It was essentially dominated by members of the Bourgeoisie, as well as some Nobles and Clergymen, but it did not effectively represent the whole of France.  The National Constituent Assembly set up a militia type force, called the National Guard, to protect themselves and their ideas, from those who were counter-revolutionary.  It was led by Marquis De LaFayatte, a member of the second Estate, who was also an influential voice in the Constituent Assembly.  The Assembly did not want to create a Republic; it wanted to create a Constitutional Monarchy.  It still wanted the King as Head of State, but wanted the people's rights and values outlined in a constitution, rather than decided by the King.  In 1789 the Constituent Assembly began developing a Constitution, because it was what the French people wanted - but their moods quickly changed and the proposed constitution became a calamity.  

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        Some reforms made by the National Constituent Assembly were significant in furthering France economically, socially and democratically - many of the reforms made in this period still exist. The financial crises of the 1780's did not magically disappear when the feudal system was abolished.  In fact, France's financial situation was becoming worse, with prices of bread and flour at an all time high.  The Constituent Assembly, eager to solve France's economic problem, brought in a new currency, called the Assignats.  Effectively, each Assignat was an ownership right to a piece of land, a kind of collateral from the government.  Most ...

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