Causes and Impact of the French Revolution

📚 The video discusses the reasons behind the French Revolution and explores four key factors.

👑 Ludwig XIV establishes an absolutist state in France, where the king rules without any limitations.

💼 The economy is focused on foreign trade, the nobles are required to stay at Versailles, and a standing army is established.

👑 France under Ludwig XIV becomes the strongest power in Europe.

💔 The French state is not functioning properly, leading to discontent.

💰 The Third Estate bears the financial burden but has no decision-making power.

👑 The first and second estates, consisting of nobility and clergy, hold privileged positions and do not pay taxes.

💰 The third estate, which includes the majority of the population, such as merchants, artisans, workers, and farmers, bear the burden of paying taxes for the monarchy, church, nobles, and military.

💸 In this feudal system, even priests receive payment for their duties, leading to exploitation and inequality.

👉 The first reason for the French Revolution is that the Third Estate, the majority of the population, has no political power or say in decision-making.

👉 The second reason is the poor economic situation and widespread hunger, with the majority of people living in miserable conditions and struggling to make a living.

💰 The worsening economic conditions and rising prices led to widespread hunger and financial struggles for the common people in France.

👑 The extravagant spending of the royal court in Versailles and the increasing state debts contributed to the financial instability in the country.

⚔️ The continuous military engagements, including the costly American Independence War, further depleted France's finances.

💰 The French Revolution was triggered by a severe financial crisis caused by excessive borrowing and spending.

💡 The Enlightenment movement played a significant role in the revolution by advocating for ideas such as separation of powers and limited monarchy.

👑 The power of the king needed to be restricted as the first step towards achieving a more just and equal society.

🔑 The French Revolution was driven by the desire to change the laws and rules of society.

💡 One of the main reasons for the French Revolution was the influence of the Enlightenment ideas.

👑 King Louis XVI recognized the need for change and consulted with representatives from all three social classes.