Why French Revolution PYQs Matter for NDA
The French Revolution (1789–1799) is a high-weightage topic in NDA’s General Studies Paper, contributing 5–10 questions. UPSC tests chronology, causes, figures, phases, and impacts. This blog compiles 35 authentic PYQs (2010–2025) with solutions, explanations, and strategies. Free cheat sheet included!
Causes of the French Revolution (8 PYQs)
Q1. (NDA 2010) The French Revolution was primarily caused by:
Answer: B
Explanation: Debt of ~8 billion livres from wars and court spending. Third Estate paid all taxes.
Why others wrong? A: Anti-clericalism was a result. C: Colonies lost pre-1763. D: France lagged industrially.
NDA Insight: Focus on economic + social causes.
Q2. (NDA 2013) Which movement greatly influenced the French Revolution?
Answer: B
Explanation: Voltaire, Rousseau, Montesquieu inspired sovereignty.
Pro Tip: Memorize Rousseau’s Social Contract.
Q3. (NDA 2017) The immediate trigger of the French Revolution was:
Answer: B
Explanation: Bread prices doubled, sparking riots.
Key Events & Timeline (10 PYQs)
Q9. (NDA 2015) French Revolution began in:
Answer: B
Explanation: May 5, 1789 – Estates-General. July 14 – Bastille.
Q10. (NDA 2018) Event that marked the beginning:
Answer: B
Explanation: July 14, 1789 – symbolic attack.
Reign of Terror & Key Figures (10 PYQs)
Q19. (NDA 2020) Reign of Terror referred to:
Answer: B
Explanation: 1793–1794 – ~17,000 executions.
Impacts & Napoleon (7 PYQs)
Q29. (NDA 2012) Major impact of French Revolution:
Answer: B
Explanation: Inspired German/Italian unification.
PYQ Trend Analysis (2010–2025)
| Year Range | No. of Questions | Hot Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 2010–2015 | 12 | Causes, Bastille, Louis XVI |
| 2016–2020 | 14 | Terror, Robespierre, Events |
| 2021–2025 | 9 | Women, Impacts, Napoleon |
Key Observation: 70% questions from 1789–1794. Rising focus on women & global impact.
Download Free Cheat Sheet
Download PDF Now!Includes: Timeline, Causes, Figures, 10 Must-Know Dates, 5 High-Weightage PYQs
Last 7-Day Revision Strategy
| Day | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1 | Causes + Estates |
| 2 | 1789 Events (Bastille, Oath, Decrees) |
| 3 | 1791–1793 (Constitution, War, Execution) |
| 4 | Reign of Terror + Figures |
| 5 | Napoleon + Impacts |
| 6 | Solve 35 PYQs |
| 7 | Mock Test + Revision |
0 Comments