France before the French Revolution
What is a Revolution? Why do they occur?
On the SURFACE: France in the 1700’s Considered most advanced country in Europe Palace of Versailles was world renowned Large population [26 million] Prosperous foreign trade French culture was widely “praised”
Backyard Of Versailles
Hall of Mirrors--Versailles
Where Louis XIV went to Church
France Behind the Scenes Economic Problems in France very high debt, Interest consumed 50% of budget High taxes & high prices (inflation) were causing protests Absolute Monarchy ruled France French kings claimed “divine” right to rule Feudalism still remained from Middle Ages Little or no upward social mobility Enlightened ideas of the philosophes threatened France Voltaire & Rousseau argued against absolute monarchy
Video Clip: Life in France