Factors leading to the storming of the Bastille

Many factors led the Paris mob to storm the fort of Bastille on July 14, 1789. Amongst them were:

(i) Louis XVI’s refusal to accord recognition to the National Assembly and support for the old regime based on feudal privileges. This led to nationwide protests.

(ii) Severe winter, rising prices, long queues for bread, and exploitation of the bakers, troubled tormented people. Hence the Paris mob took up arms stormed the Bastille, broke open the gate of the prison and freed the prisoners.

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Significance:

The fort of Bastille was the symbol of the king’s despotic and tyrannical rule. Its storming signified the end of the autocratic rule of the monarch.