preview

DBQ: The French Revolution

Decent Essays

The French Revolution is one of the most interesting and complex times in our history. As said in the historical context, “The French Revolution of 1789 had many long-range causes. Political, Social, and economic conditions in France contributed to the discontent felt by many French people-especially those of the third estate.”. Politics one a major favorite considering at the time France was an absolute Monarchy which meant the king had complete power and authority over everything. This could become a problem with the different opinions of others. Sociality, however, was also a huge factor. Inequality during this time was one of the main causes. Lastly, the economy was a burden on France as it went through a severe economic crisis, leading …show more content…

While the clergy and nobility, on the other hand, enjoyed immense wealth and privileges. The lower classes, burdened with heavy taxes and struggling to make ends meet. For example, in document 1 it says, “There is an injustice in levying the amount each person must pay. Lands held by the nobility are taxed very little. Lands held by commoners are taxed heavily. They saw the nobility and clergy as the embodiment of their oppression. The social unrest was further exacerbated by events like the economic crisis, crop failures, and rising food prices. The lower the classes, already burdened by poverty, starvation and desperation. As a result, they become more willing to challenge the existing social order and demand change. However, the Clergy was the complete opposite. The clergy owned cast amounts of land and wealth, and they received significant income. The higher ranking clergy members had access to the finest education, healthcare, and social circles. As for those not in the upper class, as stated in document 4 says “The working classes were incapable of starting or controlling the

Get Access