Book excerpt: The French Revolution remains the most examined event, or period, in world history. Most historians would argue that it was the first "modern" revolution, an event so momentous that it changed the very meaning of the word revolution to its modern sense of connoting a political and or social upheaval that marks a decisive break with the past, one that moves a society in a forward or progressive direction. No revolution has occurred since 1789 without making reference to this first revolution, and most have been measured against it. When revolution shook the foundations of the Old Regime in France, shock waves reverberated throughout the western world. Historical Dictionary of the French Revolution examines the causes and origins, the roles of significant--and often colorful--persons, crucial events and turning points, significant institutions and organizations, and the economic, social, and intellectual factors involved in the revolution. An introductory essay, chronology, and comprehensive bibliography complement the more than 400 dictionary entries, making this a great resource for students and history enthusiasts alike.