preview

The Causes Of The French Revolution

Better Essays

Good morning/Good afternoon I am Ella Nagle here to present to you the French Revolution. Through violent and bloody means, the French revolution influenced modern law making through the will power of the people. While it was only semi-successful in achieving all of its goals, it provided drastic change to the society’s social structure in France. The Revolution was a major turning point in modern European history which began in 1789 lasting in to the late 1790’s. “During this period, French citizens razed and redesigned their country’s political landscape, uprooting centuries-old institutions such as absolute monarchy and the feudal system.” (Staff, history.com, 2009). The movement ended with the ascent of Napoleon Bonaparte. Similar to the American Revolution it was an era of change and empowerment to the people of France. Towards the end of the 18th century Frances expensive involvement in the American Revolution brought the country to the edge of bankruptcy. King Louis XVI(1754-1793) and his predecessor depleted the royal Coffers and with the aid of “Twenty years of drought, poor cereal harvests, cattle diseases and skyrocketing bread prices ignited unrest among the urban poor and peasants.” (Staff, history.com, 2009) One of the main causes of the Revolution was the rising wealth amongst the middle class known as the bourgeoisie which consisted of wealthy commoners aspiring to political power. This increase was due to a surge in peasants owning land which increased

Get Access