Based on the description of feudalism given in the lesson, analyze how napoleons new ruling class resemble feudalism relationship og Louis xiv's time

Answer 1

In the lesson, the description of feudalism highlights a hierarchical system where power and land ownership are concentrated at the top, with the ruling class exerting control over the peasants and deriving economic benefits from their labor. Similarly, Napoleon's new ruling class bears resemblance to the feudal relationship of Louis XIV's time.

Firstly, both Louis XIV's ruling class and Napoleon's new ruling class held significant power and control over the common people. Louis XIV's courtiers, nobility, and clergy enjoyed immense privileges and wealth, dominating political and social spheres. Similarly, Napoleon's ruling class, comprised of military officers and bureaucrats, held extensive authority over the territories under their control, dictating policies and managing resources.

Secondly, the economic aspect of feudalism is evident in Napoleon's ruling class. In feudal times, the lords owned the land and exploited the labor of the peasants who worked on their estates. Similarly, Napoleon's ruling class, particularly military officers, acquired vast estates through conquest and were entitled to the labor and resources produced by the local population. This reflected a similar exploitative relationship to that of feudalism.

Furthermore, both ruling classes were characterized by privilege and elitism. In the feudal system, the nobles had exclusive access to positions of power and wealth, while the peasants remained in a highly subordinate position. Under Napoleon's rule, the military officers and bureaucrats enjoyed privileged status and access to lucrative positions, while the average citizen had limited opportunities for upward mobility.

Moreover, both ruling classes were largely exempt from taxation. In the feudal system, the nobility and clergy were often tax-exempt, shifting the burden of taxation onto the peasants. Similarly, under Napoleon, the ruling class was exempted or had reduced tax liabilities, further exacerbating economic inequalities and concentrating wealth and power in the hands of the few.

In conclusion, Napoleon's new ruling class bears striking similarities to the feudal relationship of Louis XIV's time. Both systems involved a hierarchical structure, with a powerful ruling class exercising control over the common people, benefiting economically from their labor, enjoying privileges, and being exempt from certain obligations. These similarities highlight the enduring characteristics of feudal relationships in different historical periods.