Tuesday, February 23rd

GOAL: Describe the social structure in 18th century France and explain how it was a driving force for change.

QOD: Is there an unequal distribution of wealth in the United States? Explain…

HW: None. (Good time for index cards!)

French Revolution

France’s Old Regime The estates general was a legislative

assembly of 3 sections:1st Estate: Clergy2nd Estate: Nobility3rd Estate: Commoners

No real power…never called to meetBecame a symbol of oppression and

hierarchy

1st Estate Clergy or priests Made up less than 1% of

population Owned 10% of the land Paid no direct taxes Collected tithes Helped the poor by

providing education and relief services

Gave sermons and performed religious duties for the nobility

Condemned the Enlightenment

2nd Estate Rich nobles Held highest offices of

government Made up of 2% of the

population Paid 0% in taxes Owned 20% of the land Wore the best clothing,

had the most money, and enjoyed constant entertainment

3rd Estate Didn’t have anything to offer

the king Made up 98% of population Paid 50% of income to taxes

and elaborate fees Had no power or influence in

government Often went hungry

A. Bourgeoisie Well educated Merchants, bankers, lawyers,

doctors, etc. B. Rural peasants

Worked on farms Some had people work for

them C. Urban workers

Cooks, printing, cloth making, blacksmiths, etc.

Street sellers

“Everything conspires to render the present period in France critical: the [lack] of bread is terrible: accounts arrive every moment from the provinces of riots and disturbances, and calling in the military, to preserve the peace of the markets.” ~Travels in France During the Years 1787 - 1789

Picture prompt…