What did George Lefebvre identify as the first phase of the revolution?

George Lefebvre identified the first phase of the French Revolution as the "noble revolution." This concept refers to the initial actions and transformations driven by the nobility and upper classes, who played a crucial role in the early stages of the revolution. Lefebvre emphasizes that the nobility not only sought to defend their privileges but also attempted to negotiate reforms within the existing feudal structure. This phase involved significant political maneuvering as the nobles reacted to the growing unrest and dissatisfaction among the lower classes.

The notion of a noble revolution highlights the complexity of the revolutionary period, illustrating that the actions and motivations of the nobility were foundational in shaping subsequent developments. Through the lens of this phase, we see how social hierarchies and class interests contributed to the evolving dynamics of the revolution, setting the stage for broader popular uprisings and economic discontent that followed.