On this day in 1789, French citizens stormed the Bastille, a royal prison fortress and political symbol that marked the start of the French Revolution
Google celebrates Bastille Day with today’s Doodle.
In France it is also known as la Fête de la Fédération (Festival of the Federation) and le Quatorze Juillet (July 14).
On this day in 1789, French citizens stormed the Bastille, a royal prison fortress and political symbol that marked the start of the French Revolution.
Today’s Doodle celebrates Bastille Day, and is illustrated by Paris-based artist Julia Spiers.
Ruled by King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, France was in turmoil during the 1780s. It was under threat of economic ruin. High unemployment and crop shortages caused nationwide famine.
Although only seven prisoners were imprisoned in the fortress, a mob approached the Bastille on the morning of July 14. By afternoon, French civilians besieged the prison with the help of some French guards sympathetic to the revolution. A few years later, in 1793, the French First Republic was born.
In 1880, the French government recognized July 14 as a national holiday.
Liberty, Equality and Fraternity are the three pillars of the French Republic, represented by the colors of the flag. Bastille Day embodies the struggle of the French people against oppression and is celebrated across the country with festivities such as military parades, free concerts and air shows.
A great fireworks show is also presented every year near the Eiffel Tower on the Champ de Mars.
The doodle was illustrated by Paris-based artist Julia Spiers.
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