FRENCH REVOLUTION-NOTES

Q.) Describe the factors responsible for the French Revolution.

Answer:
Political factors:
• Louis XVI came to power in 1774 at the age of 20
• French treasury was empty as long years of war had drained the financial resources.
• Louis XVI helped the 13 American colonies to gain their independence from the common enemy
Britain.
• France had taken 3 billion Livres loan from money lenders who began to charge 10% interest.
• To meet its regular expenses such as the cost of maintaining an army, the court, running
government offices or universities, the ruler was forced to increase taxes.
Social causes
• French society in the 18th century was divided into 3 estates - clergy, nobility and common
people.
• Clergy and nobility were 10% of the population but possessed 60% of land. Third Estate was
90% of the population but possessed 40% of the lands.
• Clergy and nobility enjoyed many privileges based on birth. The Church collected taxes from
people however they themselves were exempted from paying taxes.
• Nobles collected feudal dues from third estate people.
• Peasants were obliged to render services to the clergy and nobility to work in their houses,
fields, serve in the army or to participate in building roads.
Economic Causes:
• The population of France rose from 23 million to 28 million in 1789 which led to a rapid
increase in the demand for food grains.
• Production of grain was less because draught or hail reduced the harvest.
• Most workers were employed as labourers in workshops.
• Owners of the workshop did not increase the wages of workers.
• This led to a subsistence crisis of food grain in the cities which occurred frequently in France.
Q.) Explain the Legacy of the French Revolution to the world society.

Answer:
• The Legacy of the French Revolution is found in the ideals of Liberty, Equality and Justice that still
inspire modern democracies.
• The French fought to establish principles that would form the basis of freedom of human beings
everywhere.
• The revolution created foundation for fundamental rights of an individual
• Ordinary person could claim a voice in politics.
• It took more radical steps to broaden the definition of Liberty and Equality by concerning itself to
women’s rights and slavery.
• France became the first democracy to launch a war to spread its values.
• After the French Revolution feudal system in Europe was abolished.
• It introduced the idea of a sovereign Nation state to colonized people.
• The French Revolution is considered as an inspiring political movement.