<P> This exchange of ideas has been described as "one of the great political debates in British history". Even in France, there was a varying degree of agreement during this debate, English participants generally opposing the violent means that the Revolution bent itself to for its ends . </P> <P> In Ireland, the effect was to transform what had been an attempt by Protestant settlers to gain some autonomy into a mass movement led by the Society of United Irishmen involving Catholics and Protestants . It stimulated the demand for further reform throughout Ireland, especially in Ulster . The upshot was a revolt in 1798, led by Wolfe Tone, that was crushed by Britain . </P> <P> German reaction to the Revolution swung from favourable to antagonistic . At first it brought liberal and democratic ideas, the end of gilds, serfdom and the Jewish ghetto . It brought economic freedoms and agrarian and legal reform . Above all the antagonism helped stimulate and shape German nationalism . </P> <P> The French invaded Switzerland and turned it into an ally known as the "Helvetic Republic" (1798--1803). The interference with localism and traditional liberties was deeply resented, although some modernising reforms took place . </P>

What is the main reason the french revolution happened