History The French Revolution Questions
Before the French Revolution, France faced several main social and economic issues.
Socially, the French society was divided into three estates. The First Estate consisted of the clergy, the Second Estate comprised the nobility, and the Third Estate included the commoners, which constituted the majority of the population. This social structure led to significant inequality and unfair distribution of power and privileges. The Third Estate, in particular, faced heavy taxation, limited political representation, and economic hardships.
Economically, France was burdened with a severe financial crisis. The monarchy's extravagant spending, costly wars, and inefficient taxation system had left the country in massive debt. The tax burden primarily fell on the Third Estate, while the nobility and clergy enjoyed exemptions. Additionally, the outdated feudal system hindered economic progress, as it imposed feudal dues and restrictions on the peasants, limiting their economic opportunities.
Overall, the main social and economic issues in France before the revolution were the unequal social structure, heavy taxation on the Third Estate, limited political representation, economic hardships, and the burden of debt caused by the monarchy's mismanagement. These factors contributed to widespread discontent and ultimately fueled the revolutionary sentiments among the French population.