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In 1789 the constitutional monarchy was set up as a result of the French Revolution and was greeted with general support and enthusiasm. The French people seemed happy with the abolishment of the Ancient Regime however only three years later in 1792 the French were once again unhappy, republicanism had increased dramatically from 1789, where very few people were contemplating the idea of not having a king, to the August of 1792 where 50,000 people turned up at the “Feast of Federation demanding a republican system. This rash polarisation of public opinion evolved primarily from, the king’s actions (making him seem unworthy of being a leader), war, the role of the radical movements and fears of counter-revolution. All 4 factors played a huge role in the demolishment of the constitutional monarchy however in my opinion the main reason for the failure of the constitutional monarchy was the actions of the King and the royal family.
Louis XVI was steadily losing power from 1789 onwards, the ancient regime was over and a lot of Louis’ power was taken from. Louis’ constant desire to regain his former power and glory I feel made him a huge cause for the failure of the constitutional monarchy. The constitutionally monarchy did not want to revoke Louis as King as they felt this was too radical of a step to make, the constitutional monarchy therefore was forced to support Louis and in doing so Louis’ actions were reflective of the constitutional monarchy. Louis’ decision in refusing to sign the August decrees was a pivotal moment for the constitutional monarchy, people felt passionate about this new system of government and the King seemed to be barring the French people’s freedom, he was portrayed as counter-revolutionary and out of time with the development of the revolution. Louis of course eventually did sign the August Decrees however done it more out force then choice which showed the French people Louis’ reluctance in co-operating with the national assembly. His...