There were two far-reaching events in the year 1789: the French revolution began and the formation of Unites States of America. In comparison, the French revolution was more radical, complex and violent. The revolution created a new social and new political order. Historians say it was a major turning point in social and political for Europe. Most importantly, the immediate forces and long-range problems caused the revolution. For instance, French society, since the middle ages, was divided into three estates or orders. The society of 27 million people was based on inequality.

The Three Estates

The old regime of the French society had three estates namely: the First Estate, which comprised of the nobility and the clergy. They enjoyed particular positions and privileges. For instance, the French Catholic was a state within the French state. Secondly, the Second Estate, they were exempted from paying taxes and held the highest positions. The monarchy had created new nobility that now was around 250,000. Notably, they were divided as some conservatives, and others wanted reforms. Lastly, the Third Estate, it comprised of the bourgeoisie- the intellectuals, merchants and lower officials. The Peasantry, lived in poverty that was contributed by ineffective farming methods, lower wage rates, and corrupt taxation systems. The Urban Laborers, they were workers, artisans, and journeymen.

Financial Disorder and Inefficient Administration

The economic disorder of the old regime was contributed by the support of American Revolution and wars. The King’s extravagant lifestyle, pensions, and gifts to the nobles emptied the coffers. As a result, the revolution destroyed the aristocracy, the old regime, and its privileges. The revolution of the nobles had the unexpected consequences of triggering the revolution by the Third Estate.

 

 

References

http://www.glencoe.com/sec/socialstudies/ose/gwhmt/sample/docs/Chap11.pdf

https://mrlewinsummer2012.wikispaces.com/file/view/assembly+changes.pdf

https://college.cengage.com/history/west/perry/western_civilization/9e/chapters/chapter19.html

http://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/tocqueville-the-old-regime-and-the-revolution-1856