Leaving Paris- October 5, 1789- Heading to the Palace of Versailles

October 5, 1789

Paris was alive with revolutionary fervor! The August Decrees had abolished feudalism, but there was still much unrest in Paris. Emboldened by the capture of the Bastille and fueled by hunger, a crowd of mostly women had decided to bring their grievances directly to the King. As the King was responsible for ensuring his people were fed, I understood the logic behind their plan. Bread prices were too high, and his subjects were starving. I met these women in the market and was swept up in the crowd. I decided to accompany this bold crowd of ladies back to Versailles, to the King's palace. The whole way, patriotic songs of liberty, equality, and fraternity rang through the air!

We arrived at the palace that same day and by the time we reached the gates, our numbers had swollen into the thousands. While I was uncertain of how the King would respond, there was no trace of fear on the faces of these poor women. The King returned to the palace and must have realized the severity of the situation because he agreed to meet with a small delegation. 

Leaving the Palace of Versailles- October 6, 1789- Returning to Paris

October 6, 1789

The ferocity and resolve of the women convinced the King that he should return with them to Paris. I was beyond shocked, but certainly not upset by this development. This was a major power shift, from the monarchy to the people. They had accomplished what would have been unthinkable, a year ago...