Overview and Causes of the Revolution

Question 1

Name five major causes of the French Revolution

Answer 1

• Absolute Monarchy
• Tax burden on the Third Estate
• Government debt
• Privileges of the First and Second Estate
• Rural Poverty

Question 2

Why were people unhappy with the Absolute Monarchy?

Answer 2

Because they had little power (especially the Third Estate) and Louis disregarded their interests for his own. They felt he had too much power

Question 3

Why were people unhappy with the taxation system?

Answer 3

Because the First and Second Estate didn’t have to pay tax, despite them having the majority of money therefore it was unfair

Question 4

Why were people unhappy with the government’s debt?

Answer 4

Because money which could have gone to improving France was spent on debt caused by the government

Question 5

Why were people unhappy with the privileges of the First and Second Estates?

Answer 5

Because in comparison to the Third Estate, they had the majority of the power which was unfair

Question 6

Why was France trapped in rural poverty?

Answer 6

Because towns were overcrowded