Unit 3: Revolutions and Reaction

Lesson B: Out with the Old World and in with the New

Activity 7: The American Revolution - Permanent Change

The French and American Revolutions were models for people around the world. People began to understand that they had the power to rule themselves, rather than to be ruled by kings and queens. But unlike the American Revolution, the constitutional government formed during the French Revolution did not last long.

Download the Student Resource: U.S. and French Constitutions Comparison (doc).

Directions: Read the excerpts from the U.S. Constitution, adopted in 1789 as the supreme law of the United States of America. As you read, think about why the French Constitution, which established a constitutional monarchy, lasted only two years, while the U.S. constitution is still in effect today. Use the student resource to compare the documents as you read excerpts from the French and U.S. Constitution.

         

Classroom Activity - Revolution and Permanent Change

Discussion

Directions: Prepare a response to the discussion questions below using your completed graphic organizer. Follow your teacher's directions to participate in your class discussion.

• How were the U.S and French Constitutions different?
• Why do you believe the American Revolution was able to put into place a lasting government, while a government put in place by the emperor eventually replaced the French Revolution? Explain.

Select the link to review the Discussion Scoring Tool (pdf).

 

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