French Estate System and Key Issues

The video explores the elements of French society that led to the French Revolution, focusing on the class system. It details the roles and privileges of the First Estate (Roman Catholic Church), Second Estate (nobility), and Third Estate (commoners). The growing discontent among the Third Estate due to economic hardships and lack of political power is highlighted. The financial crisis, exacerbated by Louis XV's debts and support for the American Revolution, leads to Louis XVI's decision to tax the privileged estates and call the Estates-General, setting the stage for the Revolution.

What was the primary purpose of the estate system in French society?

• To promote economic growth

• To maintain social hierarchy and privileges

• To encourage religious freedom

• To ensure equal distribution of wealth

Which group made up the First Estate in France?

• The nobility

• The bourgeoisie

• The peasants

• The Roman Catholic Church

What was a significant privilege of the First Estate?

• Owning all the land

• Paying no taxes

• Having political power

• Controlling the army

Who were the members of the Second Estate?

• Merchants and artisans

• Nobility and aristocrats

• Clergy and church officials

• Farmers and laborers

What was a key characteristic of the Second Estate?

• They held significant land and power

• They were mostly peasants

• They were part of the bourgeoisie

• They paid high taxes

Which group was the largest within the Third Estate?

• The peasants

• The bourgeoisie

• The nobility

• The clergy

What was a major grievance of the bourgeoisie in the Third Estate?

• Lack of economic opportunities

• High taxes and lack of political power

• Religious persecution

• Excessive military duties

What financial issue did Louis XV leave for his successor?

• A surplus of wealth

• A large national debt

• A stable economy

• A balanced budget

Why did France support the American Revolution?

• To establish trade relations

• To promote democracy

• To weaken their rival, Britain

• To gain new territories

What was the purpose of the Estates-General meeting called by Louis XVI?

• To discuss the financial crisis

• To celebrate a royal wedding

• To reform the church

• To declare war on Britain