1. 1789-1799

2. BACKGROUND  The Seven Years’ War put France into an economic crisis. Their helping the U.S. with the American Revolution deepened their debt.  The Three Estate System The First Estate- (Clergy) rich, control 10-15% of land, make up less than 1% of population, Gave about 2% of their income to the government The Second Estate- (Nobility) rich, paid very few taxes, inherited high positions in the church, government, and military The Third Estate- (Bourgeoisie) 97% of the population, middle class, educated professionals (merchants, bankers, factory owners, etc.), Paid high taxes. Below the Bourgeoisie- forced to pay a tithe to the church, very poor, city workers or peasants, paid heavy taxes

4. WE WANT CHANGE!  The following things caused the French Revolution: 1.Enlightenment Ideas The 3 rd Estate was inspired by the success of the Americans. They began demanding equality, liberty, & democracy 2.Economic Problems Taxes in trade made it hard for them to make money Bad weather in 1780 led to crop failures – GRAIN Debt from Louis XVI & Marie Antoinette

5. HOW LOUIS & MARIE LIVED

6. HOW WILL HE FIX THIS?  TAX THE NOBLES!  The 2 nd Estate decide to force him to call a meeting of the representatives of all 3 estates to approve these taxes in 1789. This was the Meeting of the Estates- General

7. THE BOURGEOISIE RISES  They spoke of Liberty, Equality, & Natural Rights They voted to have a new French Constitution and a National Assembly or representative government. This is the start of the French Revolution!!

8. BASTILLE PRISON  Rumors spread that the King was going to use the military to bring down the 3 rd Estate. Commoners began to gather weapons just in case.  On July 14 th, 1789 a mob stormed the prison  War began.

9. THE END OF A MONARCHY  King Louis XVI planned to overthrow the new Constitution & escape with help from foreign countries. He and the entire family were imprisoned for treason. He and his wife were guillotined.