Bastille Day
In Paris, France, on July 14, 1789, a ragged mob of people swept through the streets shouting for justice. The people were on their way to the Bastille, a dreadful prison.
The Bastille stood for all that was evil in France. At that time, the king and the rich lived in luxury. The poor were often starving and treated badly. Anyone who complained was thrown into a prison such as the Bastille.
But on that day in July, the people rose up in anger. They stormed the Bastille, freed the prisoners, and began to tear down the prison. This event was part of the French Revolution. The revolution led to greater freedom and a better government for the French people.
Today, French people everywhere celebrate July 14 in memory of that important day in 1789. It is Bastille Day, a national holiday in France.
The celebration of Bastille Day includes parades, games, speeches, and fireworks. In the evening, people dance in the street until dawn, just as they did on the first Bastille Day.
Picture Credit : Google