French Revo

Social Studies III: The French Revolution & Napoleon PART 1: MANY PROBLEMS LEAD TO REVOLUTION IN FRANCE Differences of Americans and French People: BOTH SOUGHT INDEPENDENCE! In America… a) Revolutionaries sought independence from Britain b) Retained many British political ideas and institutions In France… a) Revolutionaries sought independence from old regime b) Revolutionaries were far more ambitious c) Overthrew traditions, customs, and institutions that were centuries old d) Reshaped the French society completely * First Reason: Bad conditions of France in the regime * Second Reason: Discontent in all levels of society French Society Has Three Classes: In the 18th Century… Social Structure = Legacy of the Feudalism in the Middle Ages 500, 000 people out of 24 million belonged to the first and second estates Three Estates (Classes): 1. The First Estate: Clergy a) Higher clergy * Important Post: Bishops, Archbishops, Abbots (Heads of Monasteries) * Only nobles were named to important posts * Examples: Cardinal Richelieu and Cardinal Mazarin * Way of life: Luxurious like other aristocrats 1) Hunting dogs 2) Horses and carriages 3) Fine furniture & works of art 4) Although with huge income, no taxes 5) Great political power (Sometimes) Responsibilities of Higher Clergy: 1. Collects large tax from the peasants 2. Owns and handles 10% of the land of France 3. Gives yearly gift to the government and determined how large b) Lower Clergy * Roles: Parish priests who came from middle and lower classes * Way of life: Most in poverty because