What was the most correct cause of the Great Fear?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Rural rumours and fear of a noble conspiracy
The Great Fear was a wave of panic that spread through the French countryside in July and August 1789. Peasants heard rumours that nobles were organising armed groups to punish villages and stop the revolutionary changes. Fear encouraged villagers to attack manor houses, seize grain, and destroy documents that recorded feudal dues and obligations. Therefore, option B, rural rumours and fear of a noble conspiracy, is the best answer. The other choices are unrelated to the causes of the Great Fear.
The event should be understood as part of the wider rural response to the political crisis. Peasants already resented feudal payments, rents, taxes, and other burdens. When rumours suggested that nobles might use force against them, existing anger turned into collective action. This pressure contributed to the National Assembly’s decision on 4 August 1789 to abolish many feudal privileges. Thus, the Great Fear was not caused by a school, a maritime dispute, or Napoleon; it grew from rural insecurity, rumours, and anti-feudal tension.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Rural rumours and fear of a noble conspiracy
Why is this the correct answer?
The Great Fear was a wave of panic that spread through the French countryside in July and August 1789. Peasants heard rumours that nobles were organising armed groups to punish villages and stop the revolutionary changes. Fear encouraged villagers to attack manor houses, seize grain, and destroy documents that recorded feudal dues and obligations. Therefore, option B, rural rumours and fear of a noble conspiracy, is the best answer. The other choices are unrelated to the causes of the Great Fear.
The event should be understood as part of the wider rural response to the political crisis. Peasants already resented feudal payments, rents, taxes, and other burdens. When rumours suggested that nobles might use force against them, existing anger turned into collective action. This pressure contributed to the National Assembly’s decision on 4 August 1789 to abolish many feudal privileges. Thus, the Great Fear was not caused by a school, a maritime dispute, or Napoleon; it grew from rural insecurity, rumours, and anti-feudal tension.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 9 History question. Chapter: The French Revolution. Topic: The Outbreak of the Revolution.
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