The French Revolution of 1789 was a period of immense change for the people of France. Uprisings of different proportions began throughout the country, sparking conflict and continuing the revolution. This significant event in history was triggered for several reasons. The three most important causes of the French Revolution were due to unfair taxation amongst the third estate, inspiration from the American Revolution, and the ideas of the Enlightenment.
The first reason for the start of the French Revolution was because of the unfair taxation on the third estate. Prior to the revolution, France was divided into three estates through what is known as the “Old Regime.” In this old order, France is separated between the clergy, nobles, peasants, city workers, and the bourgeoisie. The first estate was the clergy, the second was the nobles, and the third consisted of the peasants, bourgeoisie, and city workers. Being apart of different classes, each estate had individual rules and ways of living. Making little to no money, the third estate had to pay high taxes while the other two estates did not. This advantage for the clergy and the nobles angered …show more content…
The American Revolution was also a time of change that put thought into action. It revealed to the world, including the people of France, that change is possible. Following the success of the revolution for America, the people of France were inspired to take the initiative and begin putting their words into action. Lord Acton supports the claim by stating “ [...] the spark that changed thought into action was supplied by the Declaration of American Independence… The American example caused the Revolution to break out…” (Document 5). As Lord Acton said, the American Revolution and the American Declaration of Independence was an example for the people of France as a time of successful and positive
The first reason for the start of the French Revolution was because of the unfair taxation on the third estate. Prior to the revolution, France was divided into three estates through what is known as the “Old Regime.” In this old order, France is separated between the clergy, nobles, peasants, city workers, and the bourgeoisie. The first estate was the clergy, the second was the nobles, and the third consisted of the peasants, bourgeoisie, and city workers. Being apart of different classes, each estate had individual rules and ways of living. Making little to no money, the third estate had to pay high taxes while the other two estates did not. This advantage for the clergy and the nobles angered …show more content…
The American Revolution was also a time of change that put thought into action. It revealed to the world, including the people of France, that change is possible. Following the success of the revolution for America, the people of France were inspired to take the initiative and begin putting their words into action. Lord Acton supports the claim by stating “ [...] the spark that changed thought into action was supplied by the Declaration of American Independence… The American example caused the Revolution to break out…” (Document 5). As Lord Acton said, the American Revolution and the American Declaration of Independence was an example for the people of France as a time of successful and positive