Marie Antoinette
Marie Antoinette
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Marie Antoinette, born Maria Antonia Josefa Johanna, was the last Queen of France prior to the French Revolution and the establishment of the French First Republic. Her life was marked by significant events that shaped her fate and the course of French history. Here is a timeline of her life, highlighting key milestones and their significance.
Main Milestones
Birth of Marie Antoinette
2 November 1755
Marie Antoinette was born at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Archduchy of Austria, as the youngest daughter and 15th child of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Francis I. Her birth was complicated, and her birthday was celebrated on All Saints' Day instead of All Souls' Day due to the somber connotations of the latter.
Marriage to Louis-Auguste
19 April 1770
At the age of 14, Marie Antoinette married Louis-Auguste, Duke of Berry and Dauphin of France, by proxy. This marked the beginning of her life in France and her eventual rise to queen.
Becoming Queen of France
10 May 1774
Following the death of Louis XV, Marie Antoinette's husband ascended the throne as Louis XVI, making her the Queen of France at the age of 18. This marked the beginning of her reign and her increasing involvement in French politics.
The Diamond Necklace Affair
1785
Marie Antoinette's reputation was severely damaged by the Diamond Necklace Affair, in which she was falsely accused of acquiring an expensive diamond necklace and refusing to pay for it. This scandal further eroded her popularity among the French people.
Forced Move to Paris
6 October 1789
Following the outbreak of the French Revolution, the royal family was forcibly removed to Paris and lived in the Tuileries Palace. This marked a significant turning point in Marie Antoinette's life, as she became increasingly isolated and targeted by revolutionaries.
The Flight to Varennes
20–21 June 1791
The royal family attempted to flee France but was intercepted at Varennes-en-Argonne and returned to Paris. This failed escape attempt further damaged Marie Antoinette's reputation and sealed her fate.
Execution of Louis XVI
21 January 1793
Louis XVI was executed by guillotine, marking the end of the monarchy and leaving Marie Antoinette to face her own trial and execution.
Trial and Execution of Marie Antoinette
14–16 October 1793
Marie Antoinette was brought before the Revolutionary Tribunal, where she was unanimously declared guilty of high treason. She was executed by guillotine on 16 October 1793 at the Place de la Révolution, now known as the Place de la Concorde.