What were the reasons for the French peasants' revolt of 1358?

Answer 1

The French peasantry were most obviously angered wit Louis XVI's expensive wars and the severe food shortages. However, the French Revolution was not led by the peasantry, but instead by the rising bourgeoisie. The bourgeoisie were upper-middle class gentry who were often more wealthy than their aristocratic counterparts. These were the men who led the revolution due to their lack of voice in the government. Mass involvement came later through general dissatisfaction.

Answer 2

When the English captured the French king John and many nobles and held them for ransom, the peasants resented paying for their lord's release. Recently hit by the plague, experiencing famine in some areas, and harassed by fur-collar criminals, the peasants erupted in anger and frustration.