22 Questions
What was the Assembly of Notables?
An assembly of 144 high-ranking nobles, clergy, and magistrates
When did the First Assembly of Notables convene?
February 1787
What was purpose behind calling an Assembly of Notables?
To seek approval for proposed fiscal reforms, particularly regarding taxation
What did Calonne propose in relation to the corvee royal?
He transformed it into a tax.
What was one of Calonne's proposed reforms for the grain trade?
Deregulate it - following a policy of 'free-trade'
What was the reaction of the clergy to Calonne's proposed reforms?
They opposed the plans to tax the church.
What did Calonne propose for the army, navy, and administration of the Royal domain?
Proposed reforms of the army, navy and administration of the Royal domain.
What was the Notables 'response' to the prosed reforms in relation to the financial situation?
Not convinced and accused Calonne of Ministerial Despotism
'No taxation without representation' is associated with which proposed reform?
'Continued Calonne’s plans for a general land tax.'
How did the Notables react to Calonne's criticism of them for objecting to proposed reform?
They were offended and saw it as an example of 'ministerial despotism'.
What role did Marie Antoinette on Louis regarding Calonne?
Pressured Louis into dismissing Calonne
What did Brienne attempt to do after the Assembly of Notables was dissolved?
Turn the parlements and tried to register a land tax.
What action did the Parlement take in response to Brienne's attempt to enforce the proposal?
Remonstrated and demanded an Estates General
Who became the 'centre' of opposition to the regime and later the centre of revolutionary activity?
The Duc d’Orléans - the King's cousin
What action did the King take to try to 'support' Brienne?
He exiled Parlement to Troyes
What did the Paris Parlement issue in May 1788, challenging the authority of the King?
The Fundamental laws
What was the King's plan to end the power of the Paris Parlement?
'Replacing it with a new plenary court of nobles appointed by the king'
What action resulted in 3 months of political violence known as the Revolt of the Nobles?
The drawing up of the May Edicts
What action did Brienne take in response to provincial Parlements refusing to register edicts?
Enforced approval for loans via a lit de justice
Who was recalled as seen as the only person that could resolve the 'impasse' and restore confidence?
'Necker'
What did the Assembly of Notables decide on with regards to the method of debate for the Estates General?
Voting by Head and separate meetings
What method of voting did the Second Assembly of Notables propose?
Voting by order
Test your knowledge of the factors contributing to the breakdown of the French Government in the summer of 1788, including opposition from the nobility and clergy to proposed reforms. Explore the roles of key figures like Calonne, Brienne, and the Assembly in this pivotal historical moment.
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