The Banishment of the Parliament of Paris to Troyes in 1787

Name: The Banishment of the Parliament of Paris to Troyes in 1787
Start: 1787-07-15
Location: Unspecified

A Turning Point in French Judiciary: The Banishment of the Parliament of Paris

In the year 1787, a significant political event transpired in France that marked a major conflict between the monarchy and the judiciary. The Parliament of Paris, a court with enormous power and influence, found itself amidst a fierce struggle for authority against King Louis XVI. This situation led to their unexpected banishment to Troyes, which would profoundly affect the balance of power in the country.

The Political Climate Leading Up to the Banishment

The events leading to the banishment of the Parliament were rooted in the financial crisis facing France. The monarchy sought to implement new taxes to solve the fiscal issues, which required the Parliament's registration. However, the Parliament opposed these reforms, viewing them as a violation of traditional rights. This standing against the monarchy escalated political tensions, ultimately resulting in the king's decision to dissolve the Parliament.

The Role of the Monarchy in the Decision

King Louis XVI and his advisors saw the Parliament's defiance as a challenge to their authority. As a result, the king ordered the exile of the Parliament to reinforce royal power. This decision manifested a broader struggle between different branches of government and emphasized the increasing unrest in France, as many citizens began to question the monarchy's competence and authority.

Consequences of the Banishment on French Society

The impact of the banishment extended beyond the immediate political landscape, influencing public sentiment and contributing to the wave of reform movements throughout France. The citizens' reactions to the exile revealed mounting discontent with royal decisions and governance.

The Public's Response to the Exile

Many French citizens viewed the banishment as unjust and oppressive, which further fueled dissatisfaction with the monarchy. As news of the Parliament's exile spread, protests erupted, reflecting the growing revolutionary sentiments among the populace.

The Long-Term Impact on the French Revolution

This political maneuver was one of the events leading toward the French Revolution of 1789, as it exemplified the struggle for power between the monarchy and the judiciary. The actions against the Parliament contributed to an atmosphere ripe for revolutionary ideas, whereby ordinary citizens began to challenge the status quo.

A Fun Fact to Remember

The Unique Location of Troyes

Interestingly, Troyes, the city to which the Parliament was banished, became a temporary hub of political activity. Its historical significance added a layer of irony to the banishment, as it would eventually witness more revolutionary fervor in the years to come.