Question

What were the reasons for empty treasury during the time of louis 16?

Answer 1

The 'Treasury' of France was not empty as such during the Reign of Louis XVI. However, the economic condition was strained to a certain extent, mainly due to the support France was giving to the American Revolution. Other theories claim that it was the limitless spending and luxurious lifestyles that the people had to afford for the Royalty and the Aristocracy that was draining the coffers. The people at that time certainly believed so and pinned much of the blame for almost all on France's troubles on Queen Marie Antionette (wrongly so). The only crisis France faced at that time was a serious shortage of bread. Otherwise, under the reign of Louis XVI , France was one of the richest nations and a leading power of Europe (and the rest of the world).