Main causes of french revolution.
Answers
The following are the main causes of French revolution :—
1. Despotic rule of Louis XVI :
long years of war and extravagance of the King lead to financial crisis in France. Disposed King to increase taxes mostly paid by the third estate. It created chaos in the society.
2. Privileges and burdens of Fren ch society :
First & second estate had certain privileges by birth. The first Two States for comprised of the clergy and nobility which was 10% of the totalpopulation. rest of the 90% population made up the third estate that paid all the various direct and indirect taxes. This discrimination led to the revolution by the third estate.
3. Rising prices :
The population of France had increased. This resulted into more demand of the food grains. So, the price of bread Rose rapidly, the poor were not able to buy the high priced bread. So, the gap between the rich and poor widened.
4. Inspiration by the philosophers :
The philosophers like Locke , Rousseau and Montesquieu spread the ideas of having a society where the people enjoy freedom, equal laws and equal opportunities. They inspired the people of France to realise their dreams.
5. Role of middle class :
Another major cause was the role of the middle class who earn their wealth through expanding trade of manufactured goods, being exported.
6. Storming of Bastille prison :
During the political turmoil, France experienced severe winters leading to bad harvest. The price of bread increased, as the stocks hoarded in the market. At the same time troops were ordered into Paris. Angry woman attacked the shops. Agitated crowd stormed and destroyed Bastille prison administrative officials, i.e., those were educated. They believed that no person in the society should be privileged by birth.