A compact chronological survey traces the revolution from the breakdown of old institutions through competing constitutional experiments to the consolidation of revolutionary authority. It assesses the motives and actions of prominent actors, the workings of revolutionary assemblies and administrative measures, and the social and political forces that produced internal repression and widespread mobilization. Consideration is given to foreign diplomacy and military pressures as well as regional variations within the country, and the narrative is supported by maps, illustrations, and bibliographic guidance for further study.