Causes of the French Revolution

I. American Revolution 1. The French people were inspired by the American Revolution, and adopted the same Enlightenment philosophies.

II. Political France had an Absolute Monarchy Most people were denied basic rights

III. Social France was divided into 3 classes, or Estates. a.1st Estate- Clergy. 1% of the population, paid no taxes. b. 2nd Estate- Nobility. 2% of the population, paid no taxes. c. 3rd Estate- Peasantry. 97% of the population, had the fewest rights, least amount of land, and paid the most in taxes. (50% of income!)

In your notes, explain how voting worked amongst the Estates.

IV. Economic Centuries of wars and corruption created a severe financial crisis a. King Louis XIV built the Palace at Versailles b. King Louis XVI supported $$ the American Revolution c. Queen Marie Antoinette spent $$ on shoes, clothes, food, parties, and her hair!

Assignment- Write a Speech! You are a French peasant. Read about Marie Antoinette and the French monarchy’s spending problem. Write a speech explaining to the French people the need for a revolution. Use your notes to write your speech. 2-3 Paragraphs Persuasive At least one example from each cause: a. American Revolution b. Political c. Social d. Economic 4. Use Marie Antoinette as an example of a corrupt monarchy