How did the French Estate System contribute to the revolution?

Answer 1

There are three main interpretive perspectives that concern the French Revolution. These perspectives are the three estates of France. The first estate and second estate were comprised of the upper class - the nobility and clergy. The third estate was comprised of artisans, peasants, and the working class. As with all feudal systems, the upper classes did not have to pay taxes and had all the advantages, while the hardest working, and yet poorer, folks were left in even tighter straits because of their richer counterparts. Eventually this would lead to bitterness and constraint, which in turn would emerge into full revolt and rebellion.

Answer 2

The First Estate was the Catholic clergy which was stripped of all property and many were killed, exiled or put in prison.

The Second Estate consisted of the Nobles, some of which were killed or held in prison while the vast majority became emigres to other countries.

The Third Estate became the government and introduced the Reign of Terror to hold onto their new found power.

Answer 3

Members of the 3rd estate were inspired by the American Revolution. They began questioning long standing notions about the structure of society. They demanded equality, liberty, and democracy.

Answer 4

It was based on a feudal concept whose time had long since passed.