Chp3 Louis XVI & Marie Antoinette Flashcards
Who was Marie Antoinette?
She married Louis XVI in 1770
Why was she so unpopular from the start?
She was from Austria, an arch enemy of France
How did Marie Antoinette offend French aristocrats?
She was rude about French customs and manners in court, but she loved the glittering life at court
How did Marie Antoinette view peasant life?
She idealized it, thought it quaint, and had a farm built so she could ‘play’ farming
How did Marie Antoinette’s love of jewels cause a crisis?
She spent so much money on jewels and finery when people were starving and that the country could not afford.
What was problematic about Frances’ finances?
They were in huge debt, the royalty were living way beyond their means, and taxes were burdening the economy
How did Marie Antoinette meddle in the government?
She would fire or appoint people based on her likes/dislikes not on if they were doing or could do a good job.
Why did A.R. Turgot get fired?
He wanted to tax the nobles, and curtail the spending of the royalty.
