Describe the struggle faced by French society in the 18th century?

France’s population elevated from 23 million in 1715 to 28 million in 1789. There was a shortage of food grains. The price of bread rose rapidly. Workers were employed as laborers in workshops for fixed wages.

Home/
IAS/
Article

Describe the Structure of French Society in the 18th Century

Q: Describe the Structure of French Society in the 18th century?

The Structure of French Society in the eighteenth century was classified into three estates. The members of the first two estates were the clergy and the nobility. The members of the third estate such as Big businessmen, merchants, court officials, lawyers, peasants, and artisans paid taxes.

By BYJU'S Exam Prep

Updated on: November 9th, 2023

The Structure of French Society in the 18th Century was divided into three estates, with only members of the third estate paying taxes. The estate’s society was a component of the feudal system. The clergy and nobility were members of the first two estates. Peasants made up 90% of the population.

Table of content

1. Structure of French Society in the 18th Century

Structure of French Society in the 18th Century

The French had a difficult time in the 18th century. During that time, they faced severe economic crises as well as the popular French revolution. It put the country on the back foot, and its citizens suffered greatly as a result. Not only that, but Napoleon Bonaparte declared himself Emperor of France at the end of the 18th century.

The following points describe the structure of French society in the late eighteenth century:

Louis XVI of the Bourbon family of kings ascended to the French throne in 1774.
The long war had depleted France’s financial resources, so he found the treasury empty.
He helped thirteen American colonies gain independence from Britain.
Taxation was raised to cover the government’s regular expenses, such as the cost of maintaining an army, the court, and running government offices or universities.
Peasants were forced to work in their homes and fields, as well as serve in the army or build roads.

Related Questions:

Describe the Structure of French Society in the 18th Century

Structure of French Society in the 18th Century

FAQs on Structure of French Society in the 18th Century

Describe the Structure of French Society in the 18th century?

Describe the struggle faced by French society in the 18th century?

Recent Posts