Section 1, 1774 - 1789 Flashcards
When did Louis XV die?
May 1774
What was the state of national finance at Louis XV’s death?
After a number of failed wars, the national treasury was all but empty come 1774
Louis’ successor was faced with this
What was the state of religion at Louis XV’s death?
Louis XVs strict catholic policy led to persecution of any major opposition to the church, simplifying the French religious landscape
What two major wars had Louis XV been involved in?
The War of the Austrian Succession: returned land taken at the end of the war, providing him with international favour, but loss of the support of his people
The Seven Years war: All French land in America lost
France allied with Austria, improving their relations
Despite the king at the time of Louis XV’s death being an Absolute Monarch, what checks were there on his power?
Has to consult the Parliament of Paris before making any major decisions, who had the right to stop his royal edicts from becoming law
What were the three estates composed of?
First (Clergy)
Second (Nobility)
Third (Commoners, represented by the Bourgeoisie, who were massively wealthy)
Decisions of the 3 estates were equal which caused dispute as the third estate represented 98% of the French population, but the First and Second estates tended to agree on most decisions, making it usually impossible for the verdict of the majority of the nation to be reached.
Who did Louis XVI marry in 1770?
Marie Antoinette
Austrian Duchess, causing controversy with the people of France, weighing to their long-time rivalry, and accusations of her frivolous spending
When was Louis XVI Coronated?
1775
Why did France aid America in the War of Independence?
From 1776 to 1783
To undermine the British, and eventually have influence over the potentially powerful nation that the colonies could become
When was Turgot Controller-General of Finances?
What did he achieve?
1774 - 76
Hired for his reforming ideas
Thought economy would benifit, & generate more crown revenue if privilages & restrictive controls were replaced w/ a freer system
Achieved: cuts to royal expenses, gov departments submit expenses to Controller-General
Opposed involvement in American War
What was the Treaty of Aranjuez?
1777
Between France and Spain to agree to collaborate in aid of the United States against Britain
Britain enters in 1778
FP: Establishes positive links between Spain, France & America
What was the Treaty of Amity and Commerce?
1778
The French recognised the United States independence
When was Necker Director-General of Finance?
1780 - 81
Director not Controller because of his Prot faith
Appointed due to dire state of French national finance
Attempted to make management of French finance transparent by making reports of income and expenditures
Believed transparency would gain him faith in his policies
Resigned due to disagreements with other ministers
What was the 1783 Treaty of Paris?
War officially ends between France, Spain, Britain and the newly formed United States of America
France doesn’t gain any money or territory, meaning the large amount spent on aid to the colonial forces wouldn’t be repaid
What was the effect of the American War of Independence on the French people?
Ideals of liberty, equality & fraternity resonate with the citizens of France, & begin to cause debate
