The Causes of the French Revolution
Conflict is typically the result of a series of interrelated events and conditions. The French Revolution became inevitable as a result of a complex mixture of events and circumstances.
I. The Unfairness of the Old Social System (Ancien Regime)
The system consisted of three social classes called the Three Estates.
o The First Estate
- consisted of members of the clergy (people who were part of the Catholic church organization)
- had privileges
- were not required to pay most taxes
- owned much property
o The Second Estate
- members had noble titles
- had privileges (could hunt)
- were not required to pay most taxes
- owned much property and wealth (though not all were wealthy)
o The Third Estate
- consisted of everyone who was not clergy or had a title
- did not have privileges
- were heavily taxed
II. The Power of the Throne
Under the Old Regime, the French king was an absolute monarch. Louis XIV consolidated all political power into his hands. He did not summon the Estates-General of elected representatives to give advice. He removed the power of the regional parlements.
III. The Weakness of the Kings
While King Louix XIV was able to govern effectively as an absolute monarch, neither Louis XV nor his grandson Louis XVI were examples of sound political leadership. After Louix XIV died, the formerly inluential nobles attempted to regain some of their past power. Louis XV was generally described as being unintelligent and weak as a ruler. ..... Louis XVI was known for his indecisiveness and disinterest in political power. For years, France lacked the strong leader that it needed as social and economic conditions deteriorated.
IV.The Financial Crisis
During most of the 18th century, France's economy and population grew. During Louix XVI's reign, France was deeply in debt and the debt was growing. The French were experiencing food shortages and unemployment. France was still paying for the wars of Louis XIV and were now supporting the Americans in their bid to separate from Britain. Both Louis XV and XVI borrowed more money to support their war efforts and pay for Versailles. Furthermore, the pre-Revolution tax structure placed the majority of the tax burden on the third estate (business class, farmers) while the first and second estate avoided most taxes.
V. The Enlightenment
At the same time that frustration and desperation were mounting in France, the works of philosophers such as Montesquieu, Rousseau and voltaire were rousing attention and support from the people.
