Question

What were the six causes of the French Revolution? Explain each point

Answer 1

Causes of the French Revolution
1. International: struggle for hegemony and Empire outstrips the fiscal resources of the state

2. Political conflict: conflict between the Monarchy and the nobility over the “reform” of the tax system led to paralysis and bankruptcy.

3. The Enlightenment: impulse for reform intensifies political conflicts; reinforces traditional aristocratic constitutionalism, one variant of which was laid out in Montequieu’s Spirit of the Laws; introduces new notions of good government, the most radical being popular sovereignty, as in Rousseau’s Social Contract [1762]; the attack on the regime and privileged class by the Literary Underground of “Grub Street;” the broadening influence of public opinion.

4. Social antagonisms between two rising groups: the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie

5. Ineffective ruler: Louis XVI

6. Economic hardship, especially the agrarian crisis of 1788-89 generates popular discontent and disorders caused by food shortages

Answer 2

1. Firstly, the system of estates in France was marked by gross inequalities. The clergy and the nobility which were the privileged classes were exempted from paying taxes. The third estate which formed a majority of the population had to bear the burden of taxes. Hence, they were profoundly discontented.

2. Secondly, Louis XVI, the king of France, was an inefficient and a weak ruler. He beleived in autocratic rule and led a life of luxury.

3. Thirdly, the eighteenth century witnessed the emergence of revolutionary ideas of political philosophers. The philosophers refuted the theory of divine right of the kings and absolute monarchy and proclaimed the doctrine of equality of man and sovereignty of the people.

4. Fourthly, While the masses were dying for want of foodstuffs, the members of royal family, nobles and clergy were spending money extravagantly.

5. Fifthly, The Consequent discontent of the peasantry and the middle classes created an explosive situation.

6. Sixthly, The economic crises made the situation worst. People could no longer tolerate the King's tyranny.