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France's Social Changes

Decent Essays

Considered one of the most powerful empires in the 17th and 18th century, France underwent massive changes in its social, political and economical structure. In early 18th century it was governed by an oppressive feudal system of land-holding between 3 estates, which resulted in an unequal and unfair distribution of privilege and wealth (2005, Calum Crosbie). The 1st estate of clergy and the 2nd estate of nobility owned the majority of lands, held privileges like tax exemption and presided over the 3rd estate which consisted of everyone else. This system had been stable for a long time, mainly due to the illiteracy of the 3rd estate, but the rise of the middle class educated bourgeoisie meant perceptions were changing. By the late 18th century …show more content…

In defense to this France's constituent government issued a formal declaration of war against Austria and Prussia on April 20, 1792 (2016, M Issit). However France suffered defeats and the war had an adverse effect on the economy, with the currency value falling, prices rising further and food becoming in short supply. During this time there were emerging radical groups, intent on further revolution. In particular the Jacobins, who were led by Robespierre, advocating universal manhood suffrage, education for all and a secular state (2005, Calum Crosbie). Unrest in the city mounted high and the main constituent power the Girondists began to crumble under the pressure to the Jacobins, when they couldn’t tackle the problems presented. The King was also found out to be a traitor to the revolution leading to his execution. In September 1793, the Reign of Terror began. (2016, M Issit) This terror was led by the Jacobins, who were quickly rising in power, who used the Committee of Public Safety to attack any suspected anti-revolutionists by tribunal and execution. The numbers of the executed (many without trial) went up to 30,000, and this became known as the ‘September Massacres’ (2005, Calum Crosbie). The population eventually turned against Robespierre and the radical measures of the French government were

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