The French Revolution

            
             The French Revolution caused significant changes whose effects were felt throughout Europe. Although the makings of the war had been brewing for some time, it officially began in 1789 when the French people rose up violently against the king and continued until Napoleon Bonaparte took power. The French Revolution was political, social, religious, and economic in nature. Its goal was to establish a more egalitarian society and a more responsible government. In the end, many of the existing institutions were swept away.
             The French Revolution had a multiple of causes, some more apparent than others. Its origins were many. Louis XVI failed to understand the problems facing France and its people. The cost of aiding the Americans during their revolution along with his queen's excesses caused an enormous debt. This was problematic since he had no effective way of raising revenue. His predecessors had exempted the landed nobility and the Catholic Church, who made up the First and Second Estates, from "taxation in return for their loyalty and acceptance of royal absolute power." .
             France was divided into three social classes between which there were unjust distinctions and privileges. The higher clergy, who led luxurious lives, made up the First Estate. They were exempted from paying most taxes. The Second Estate was made up of the nobility who, like the First Estate, were mostly free from taxation. They owned most of the land, enjoyed great privileges and held important posts in the French government and army. .
             The majority of France's population was made up of members of the Third Estate which included peasants, farmers, craftsmen, professionals, businessmen, etc. Members of the Third Estate were unfairly burdened with the bulk of the taxes. Even though they only owned two-fifths of the country's land, they paid more than three-fifths of the country's taxes. They paid land and property taxes while the First and Second Estates were exempt.