bastille

Everyday

1. The Bastille was a fortress prison in Paris; on 14 July 1789 crowds stormed it, starting the French Revolution. tree →
2. (French) bastille means a fort or castle; it sounds like bass-TEEL to an English ear. tree →

In the lessons

In history lessons, the Storming of the Bastille is the start of the French Revolution, when people rose against the king and his unfair rule. Bastille Day, 14 July, is France's national day, with parades and fireworks. The prison was pulled down; a column stands on the Place de la Bastille.

Examples

• The Storming of the Bastille began the French Revolution. tree →
• Bastille Day is celebrated with fireworks in France. tree →
• The Bastille held only seven prisoners when it was stormed. tree →
• The crowd tore down the walls of the Bastille. tree →
• We learned about the Bastille in history. tree →
• French people call the day le 14 juillet. tree →

Note

Usually the Bastille with a capital B. A French word. Said bass-TEEL. The famous date is the main fact; Bastille Day is 14 July.