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Questions and Answers
What financial challenges did Louis XVI face upon becoming king in 1774?
What financial challenges did Louis XVI face upon becoming king in 1774?
Louis XVI faced an empty treasury, high interest rates on loans, and ongoing expenses that were challenging to meet, largely due to years of war and extravagant expenditures.
How was French society structured in terms of the three estates during the late eighteenth century?
How was French society structured in terms of the three estates during the late eighteenth century?
French society was divided into three estates: the clergy, nobility, and the third estate, which primarily consisted of peasants.
Which estate was responsible for paying taxes and what were the implications of this responsibility?
Which estate was responsible for paying taxes and what were the implications of this responsibility?
The third estate was responsible for paying taxes, which created financial burdens for the largely peasant population while the clergy and nobility were exempt.
What privileges did the clergy and nobility enjoy compared to the third estate?
What privileges did the clergy and nobility enjoy compared to the third estate?
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What role did the nobility and Church play regarding the peasantry in the context of economic pressures?
What role did the nobility and Church play regarding the peasantry in the context of economic pressures?
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Study Notes
French Society in the Late Eighteenth Century
- In 1774, Louis XVI became king of France, inheriting a financial crisis.
- Years of war and an extravagant court had drained France's resources.
- The French government faced escalating debt and interest payments.
- 1770's debt exceeded 2 billion livres.
- French society was structured into three estates: the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners (third estate).
- Commoners (peasants) made up approximately 90% of the population.
- Aristocrats (nobility) owned approx 60% of the land.
- Clergy also owned a significant portion of land.
- The clergy and nobility were largely exempt from paying taxes.
- Peasants were heavily taxed to pay for the state's expenses.
- These taxes included direct taxes (taille), indirect taxes on consumables (like salt and tobacco), and feudal dues.
- The burden of financing the state largely fell on the third estate.
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Description
Explore the intricate social structure of France during the late 1700s, a time marked by financial turmoil and class disparities. This quiz delves into the roles and struggles of the three estates: the clergy, nobility, and commoners, focusing on their impact on society leading up to the French Revolution.
