What was the structure of French society during the late eighteenth century, particularly regarding the estates system and feudal privileges?
Understand the Problem
The question asks about the structure of French society during the late eighteenth century, specifically regarding the estates system and the feudal privileges associated with different social classes.
Answer
French society had three estates: clergy, nobility, and commoners. The first two enjoyed privileges, like tax exemptions.
French society in the late eighteenth century was divided into three estates: the First Estate (clergy), the Second Estate (nobility), and the Third Estate (commoners, including the middle class, wage workers, and peasants). The first two estates enjoyed privileges, including exemption from taxes and feudal dues collected from the peasantry, leading to social inequality.
Answer for screen readers
French society in the late eighteenth century was divided into three estates: the First Estate (clergy), the Second Estate (nobility), and the Third Estate (commoners, including the middle class, wage workers, and peasants). The first two estates enjoyed privileges, including exemption from taxes and feudal dues collected from the peasantry, leading to social inequality.
More Information
The Estates system caused major social inequalities, prompting the Third Estate to seek reforms, which were a significant factor leading to the French Revolution.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming all members of the Third Estate were peasants, when it also included the middle class and wage workers.
Sources
- The class system in the French Revolution - Study.com - study.com
- French Society during the late Eighteenth Century - GeeksforGeeks - geeksforgeeks.org
- The Three Estates of Pre-Revolutionary France - worldhistory.org
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