the revolution began with the storming of the bastille on july 14, 1789, which was a symbol of the monarchy's power and authority. this event was followed by the abolition of feudalism and the declaration of the rights of man and of the citizen, which established equal rights for all citizens. however, the revolution quickly became more radical, and the jacobins, led by maximilien robespierre, came to power and instituted the reign of terror, during which thousands of people were executed.