Created in the 1390s, the Bastille was originally a medieval fortress used for defense against English invasions. The Bastille was quickly turned into a state prison and by the reign of Louis XIV, the former fortress was being used regularly to hold political enemies, writers, religious dissenters, and anyone who happened to irritate the king. The Bastille became a symbol of tyranny and nobility to many in the late 18th century. On July 14, 1789, amidst growing levels of unrest across France, the Bastille stormed by revolutions who executed the prison governor. The act had resounding effects, beginning the all important French Revolution which captivated many in Europe and introduced new concepts of liberty.