The Extent of Change in France to 1789

Introduction to the Revolutionary Changes in France

Although France was a successful nation-state under the absolutist rule of Louis XIV, major changes were to come by the end of the 18th century. The French Revolution, sparked by political, social and economic pressures, came to radically reshape French society.

Political Changes to 1789

The autocracy of the monarchy was under growing pressure by 1789, as a result of fiscal crisis and philosophes’ criticisms, leading to calls for political reform and democratic representation.
Influence from the American Revolution played a significant role in desired political change. The French financial support in the American battles against British rule led to further debt, but it also exposed French society to democratic ideals and arguments against monarchic rule.
There were growing tensions between the estates general, consisting of the clergy (the First Estate), nobility (Second Estate), and the bourgeoisie and peasantry (Third Estate). A majority of the population was concentrated within the Third Estate, and their lack of representation despite their massive population, started to cause resounding resentment.

Social Changes to 1789

Enlightenment ideals spreading through France, such as those from Voltaire and Rousseau, began to question the social order. Ideas about equality, individual freedom, and the wilful transfer of power from the people became more popular.
There was increased resentment against the nobility, particularly in their exemption from taxes. Anger also grew against the Church for their clergical wealth, moral indiscretions, and perceived violations of their spiritual duties.
The growth of the bourgeoisie, the middle-class of merchants, intellectuals and businessmen, was a significant factor leading into the Revolution. Despite being more prosperous and educated than commoners, they did not possess the equivalent political power and privileges of the nobility, which fomented dissension.
Economic questions intertwined heavily with social ones. France’s economic model was developing, shifting from agriculture-based economy to one that was increasingly industrial and global.

Economic Changes to 1789

Financial crisis was looming due to the costs of wars, including the American Revolution, and the extravagance of the Royal Court, leading France to the brink of bankruptcy.
Excessive taxation on the common people and the exemption of the clergy and the nobility drove discontent, leading to demands for reforms to the taxation system.
Continued antiquated agricultural practices and incidences of poor crop yields led to periods of famine, notably the one in 1788, further escalating popular dissatisfaction.

The era leading up to 1789 saw significant shifts in France’s political, social and economic spheres, all of which created a tempestuous environment ripe for revolution. It was a time of drastic transformation that paved the way for a society and a world forever altered.