Causes Of The French Revolution Essay

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One of the most well known revolutions in history was the French Revolution which took place between 1789-1799. It was a time when the French people rebelled against the monarchy which in their eyes was misusing it power. Revolutions are common throughout the world 's history. When people believe that their leaders are misusing their power, the people, will turn against them. There are many things that can cause a Revolution. But the three main causes of the French Revolution were over taxation of the poor, the unpopularity of the Monarchs Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, and the new ideas brought on by the enlightenment. The first cause of the French Revolution was the over taxation of the poor. France had gone into a large debt due to their over-spending. However in order to maintain their luxurious life style, "the clergy continually raised taxes on the third estate"(Doc D). However as the debts continued to get larger the taxes were raised in order to "balance" it out. In the late 1700s close to thirty five percent of a commoners budget was spent on taxes to the king( Doc K). The people were unable to buy …show more content…

These ideas wee spread throughout all three estates. "During the 18th century new thinkers began to use reason science to challenge all such traditions"(Doc A). These traditions included the estates, the monarchy, and the taxation of the poor. The Age of Enlightenment was a time of new ideas, and a time for people to think for themselves. "France was alive with new ideas and debates"(Doc A). This soon brought new concerns for the monarchy. As "the drive for equality had begun to threaten the aristocratic way of life"(Doc A). People began to demand a change starting with the monarchy. A new document was Drawn up, called the Declarations of the rights of man citizens. This was the beginning of the end of the French monarchy. And the start of a new era of

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