The French Revolution began in 1789 and overthrew the French monarchy and feudal system. The Third Estate, which represented the common people, demanded political rights and reforms. After the storming of the Bastille, the National Assembly abolished feudalism and adopted the Declaration of the Rights of Man. However, political divisions grew between moderate and radical factions. The monarchy was abolished and King Louis XVI was executed, leading to the Reign of Terror under Robespierre and the Jacobins. Over 30,000 people were executed before the Directory was established in 1795, marking the end of the revolutionary period.