French society was divided into three classes:
- First Estate: The clergy (church leaders)
- Second Estate: The nobility (aristocrats)
- Third Estate: Everyone else, including peasants, workers, and the middle class.
Three main factors led to the French Revolution:
- Social Inequality: The Third Estate felt treated unfairly and had little power.
- Economic Hardship: Many people faced financial struggles and food shortages.
- Political Discontent: There was a strong desire for change and dissatisfaction with the ruling monarchy.
Formation of the National Assembly: The members of the Third Estate wanted a bigger say in the government and aimed to represent the common people against the privileges enjoyed by the First and Second Estates.
The Great Fear: In the countryside, peasants feared rebellion by the nobility, which led to panic. They attacked noble estates and demanded their rights.
How Each Factor Contributed to Revolutionary Feelings:
- The divide between the estates made the Third Estate feel angry and underrepresented, pushing them to seek change.
- Enlightenment ideas about equality and justice led people to question the king and church's authority.
- The economic crisis, with high taxes and food shortages, made life tough for ordinary people and increased frustration.
- King Louis XVI's weak leadership made people feel disconnected from the monarchy, raising calls for reform.
Key Events Leading to the French Revolution:
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Meeting of the Estates-General: Called to deal with the financial crisis, it exposed the deep divides in society and the Third Estate's grievances, pushing them closer to revolution.
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Establishment of the National Assembly: The Third Estate declared themselves the true representatives of the people, challenging the king's authority.
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Tennis Court Oath: Members of the National Assembly promised to create a new constitution for France, showing their commitment to change.
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Storming of the Bastille: This act of rebellion against the king's authority became a powerful symbol of defiance and rallied more support for the revolution.