What decree was passed on 12 July 1790 concerning the clergy?

The decree passed on 12 July 1790 concerning the clergy was the Civil Constitution of the Clergy. This significant piece of legislation was part of the broader reforms during the French Revolution aimed at restructuring the relationship between the church and state.

The Civil Constitution of the Clergy sought to bring the Catholic Church in France under the control of the state, which included the reorganization of the church hierarchy, the establishment of a national church, and the requirement that clergy be elected and paid by the state. This decree effectively transformed the clergy into public servants, which created a considerable divide between those who supported the Revolution and loyalists to the Pope and the traditional Church structure.

This was a critical moment in the Revolution, as it not only affected the clergy's role in society but also led to significant opposition from both religious authorities and the populace who were loyal to traditional Catholic practices. The resulting tensions contributed to divisions within French society and spurred further conflict and unrest.

Understanding the context of the Civil Constitution of the Clergy is essential for grasping the complexities of the Revolution, including the struggles over secularism, governmental authority, and religious freedom that would unfold in the subsequent years.