Causes of the French Revolution

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What were the financial problems facing France before the Revolution?

France faced immense debt and financial crisis due to costly wars and extravagant spending by the monarchy.

How did social inequality contribute to the French Revolution?

The rigid social hierarchy and inequality, especially grievances of the Third Estate, fueled discontent and demands for reform.

What role did the Enlightenment ideas play in causing the French Revolution?

Enlightenment ideas about liberty, equality, and democracy inspired the French people to question the monarchy and demand reform.

What was the impact of the American Revolution on France?

The American Revolution provided both a successful example of revolution and increased France's financial burdens due to its support.

How did the Estates-General contribute to the Revolutionary atmosphere?

The calling of the Estates-General exposed the deep divisions and frustrations within French society, leading to political uprisings.

What was the significance of the Tennis Court Oath?

The Tennis Court Oath was a pivotal step in the formation of a new government, as the Third Estate vowed not to disband until a new constitution was established.

How did the growing food scarcity influence the French Revolution?

Poor harvests and rising bread prices led to widespread hunger and unrest among the common people, exacerbating tensions.

What was the role of King Louis XVI in the lead-up to the Revolution?

King Louis XVI's indecisiveness and inability to effectively address financial and social issues aggravated the situation.

Why was the fall of the Bastille significant?

The storming of the Bastille was a symbol of the people's power and marked the beginning of the revolutionary activities in France.

What was the Ancien Régime?

The Ancien Régime was the political and social system in France before the Revolution, characterized by absolute monarchy and feudal privileges.

How did the Enlightenment philosophers like Rousseau and Voltaire affect the revolution?

Their writings challenged traditional authority and inspired revolutionary thoughts about individual rights and freedom.

What role did taxation play in the causes of the French Revolution?

Unfair taxation primarily burdened the Third Estate, leading to resentment and demands for equitable taxation and representation.

Why did the calling of the Estates-General in 1789 fail to resolve France's problems?

The Estates-General highlighted divisions between the estates, and disagreements on representation and voting procedures led to paralysis.

What was the significance of the National Assembly?

The National Assembly represented the early stage of revolutionary government, aiming to create a constitution and reform society.

Why did the Women's March on Versailles occur?

It was driven by political unrest, economic hardship, and the demand for assured food supplies, culminating in royal relocation to Paris.