A. The Old Regime

    1. Economically weak- the government has deficits and must tax.
 
    2. Politically weak - the government is ineffective and cannot enforce policy.
 
    3. Intellectuals desert - reformers speak out against the government.
 
    4. Class antagonism - there is a conflict between the old regime and new forces.

B. First Stages of the Revolution

    1. Symbolic actions - there is a rallying point against the old regime.
 
    2. Planning - the new forces plan a "spontaneous" revolt.
 
    3. Role of Force - the government cannot repress the rebellion.

C. Rule of the Moderates (Center)

    1. Dual sovereignty - there is a better organized and obeyed government.
 
    2. moderates take over mechanism of government - make a new constitution: fight a war.

D. Accession of the Extremists (Left)

    1. Coup d'etat - the illegal government seizes power.
 
    2. Organization - a small number of devoted, disciplined radicals govern.

E. Reigns of Terror and Virtue

    1. Forced conformity or punishment
 
    2. Spread the gospel of revolution
 
    3. Causes of terror: habitual violence, pressure of war, economics; class or ideological struggles

F. Thermidore (Center)

    1. First convalescence from the fever of revolution
 
    2. Amnesty or representation
 
    3.Return of pleasure, religion, status quo
 

Adapted from Crane Brinton's The Anatomy of Revolution( New York: Vintage Books, 1958)