The shocking takeover of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, is considered one of the most dramatic events in history, and is now viewed as a symbol of the spark which set off the French Revolution. Each year the anniversary is celebrated as a public holiday in France: ”Le quatorze juillet” (14 July), formally known as the “Fête de la Fédération” (Federation Holiday). In English speaking countries it is usually referred to as Bastille Day. The historic events surrounding the storming of the Bastille are looked upon with as much respect and reverence by the French and Europeans as Americans view the colonists taking on the British troops in the “shot heard ‘round the world.” The Bastille made a great target, but an even greater symbol of the people taking authority into their own hands. The Bastille was originally a medieval fortress-prison that had often been utilized by French kings to imprison their politically disagreeable or disloyal subjects.

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