1. Political Discontent Citizens began to notice their constitution (the absolute monarchy) was not working. » The bourgeoisie began to want to express their opinions, and hated their government that followed the whims of a monarch. » Citizens also noticed the parliaments were supposed to keep the king in check, but the King could have them fired when they did things he was not if favor of. Video

2. Economic discontent Taxation & Debt – Lead to Economic hardship and hunger Peasant population increased dramatically – This growth increased the demand for more land – Land was being divided into smaller and smaller portions – Peasants couldn’t support themselves on the meager amount of land they were given – Wars in America left France in huge debt More taxes were placed on the people to try and make up for Frances debt With bad land and no money there was a bad harvest which lead to famine Peasants threatened violence

3. The Enlightenment The Enlightenment writers inspired the French middle class, working class and nobility to rebel against the monarchy and finally fight for the ideology of equality and freedom of the individual. – Voltaire – Rousseau