Evaluate the success of the Directory (1795–1799) in bringing stability to France.

Candidates are required to make an appraisal of how successful the Directory was in bringing stability to France between November 1795 and November 1799. Stability could be interpreted as political and economic stability. Candidates may argue that it was initially successful, but ultimately a failure and easily overthrown. Areas to consider could include: the levels of political violence and repression, the extent of opposition to the Directory and the extent of economic stability. In the early stages the economy was more stable but towards the end, the levels of corruption and inflation created opposition. Candidates could argue that the Directory did not provide stability. The five Directors were a weak executive with little control of resources and unable to enforce their decisions, with the bicameral legislature, the Council of Five Hundred and the Council of Ancients arguably holding greater sway with its power to appoint Directors.