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History glossary

The Tennis Court Oath

the June 1789 oath by deputies not to separate until France had a written constitution.

Category
Historical event
Region
France
Date range
20 June 1789

What it means

The Tennis Court Oath was sworn on 20 June 1789 after deputies found their meeting hall closed. They vowed not to disperse until France had a constitution, asserting authority independent of royal permission.

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