Topic: French Revolution Focus: What were the causes of the French Revolution? Discuss the following question with your neighbor: How would you change and unjust/unfair government? (you have 2 minutes)

France goes from Prosperous to Chaotic Center of the Enlightenment Large population Positive foreign Trade Bad Harvest High Prices High Taxes Questioning legitimacy of the ruling class

Problems in France Economic and social inequalities in the Old Regime helped cause the French Revolution. Throughout history, economic and social inequalities have at times led peoples to revolt against their governments. (This will be a recurring theme throughout the course)

The Causes of the French Revolution The causes of the French Revolution can be easily remembered as STEAK & Famine. How does each letter of STEAK & Famine represent a cause of the French Revolution?

The 3 Estates Social Inequality____

Taxes

Enlightenment Influence Locke Rousseau

“American Revolution”

King Louis XVI – Absolute rule

King Louis XVI – Absolute Rule

King Louis XVI – Absolute Rule

Famine

It’s rather hard bread, but its all we have left.

The French Revolution Begins… During the 1770s and 1780s, France’s government sank deeply into debt. Part of the problem was the extravagant spending of Louis XVI and his queen, Marie Antoinette.

Where is the tax money?

In 1786, when bankers refused to lend the government any more money, Louis faced serious problems. Rather than cutting expenses, Louis put off dealing with the emergency until he practically had no money left. His solution was to impose taxes on the nobility. However, the Second Estate forced him to call a meeting of the Estates-General—to approve this new tax. The meeting, the first in 175 years, was held on May 5, 1789, at the Royal Palace of Versailles.

The Suggested Voting Pattern: Voting by Estates Louis XIV insisted that the ancient distinction of the three orders be conserved in its entirety.

The Number of Representatives in the Estates General: Vote by Head!

Last time it was called into session was 1614! The Estates General

“The Third Estate Awakens” They proclaimed themselves the “National Assembly” of France.

The Tennis Court Oath

The Storming of the Bastille A rumor that the king was planning a military coup against the National Assembly. 18 died. 73 wounded. 7 guards killed. It held 7 prisoners [5 ordinary criminals & 2 madmen].