French_Revolution

There were many causes of the French Revolution. A number of historical, social, political and economic factors contributed to widespread discontent among the French people. One of the main historical events that happened prior to the Revolution was the American war of independence. In 1776, after a major war with England, the Americans defeated the British and became an independent nation. The Age of Enlightenment also had an affect on the French people, especially the bourgeousie. A number of scholars and philosophers wrote about new ideas and philosophies and this led them to question the nobility and clergy. Socially, the French were very unhappy with the social structure of the time. The first and second estates which included the nobility, clergy and King had all the power, land and wealth. The third estate made up the majority of the population but could not own land, had no power and were poor. They were also the only ones to pay taxes. Politically, France was an absolute monarchy and the King had run the country into bankruptcy. He wouldn't listen to the grievances of his people and would not change. Economics also played a major role in the start of the French Revolution as the King had spent so much money on his wars and maintaining his lifestyle that France was almost bankrupt. The third estate was working for very poor wages in terrible conditions and unemployment had never been higher. Despite this fact, their taxes were extremely high and they could barely afford to live. All of these factors combined to create mass discontent among the French people, especially the lower classes. They were all instrumental in contributing to the start of the French Revolution.