The proto-nationalist ideas of such Enlightenment writers, as Montesquieu, Locke, Voltaire, and Rousseau, influenced the Revolution. Each professed varying ideas about a nation in the interests of the people, and contemplated the ideal forms of government, society, economy, and religion. The writings of these philosophes had an effect on the emergence of nationalism during the Revolution of 1789.
Likewise, the General Cahiers of 1789 showed an emerging national consciousness. They expressed the frustrations and concerns of people in the provinces of France. While most focused of local grievances, an underlying desire for greater recognition and a voice in government also surfaced.
The leaders of the Revolution, e. g., Mirabeau, Vergniaud, Barère, Danton, and Robespierre, gave inspirational and influential speeches that illustrate the nationalist evolution of the Revolutionary period. They illustrate the transition from monarchy to popular Republic. Even from within different parties, the orators of the Revolution used national sentiment and dedication to the nation to rouse the representatives in government. Many of these speeches were carefully planned and written and distributed among the people of France beyond those in government meetings.
Likewise, the laws and Constitutions passed by the National Assembly, Legislative Assembly, and National Convention echo the nationalist values of the Revolution, and frequently found their justification in the protection of the nation. They show the changes, but also similarities, in the policies of the nation as different parties rose to and fell from power. This nationalist sentiment found its final expression in the levy en masse of 1793, which appealed to the young men’s patriotic spirit and sense of duty to the nation. National symbols, such as the tricolor flag and “La Marseillaise,” provided rallying points for those who responded to the call of duty.
