Essay On What Were The Causes Of The French Revolution?

The French Revolution is one of the remarkable events in the history of the world. There are several causes and consequences responsible for the occurrence of the French Revolution. The first and foremost cause of the French Revolution is the incapability of the Royal Treasury to reach a decision regarding its problems. The improper fiscal system and the hostile reactions it provoked are also major causes of the French Revolution. The tax system of the French before the revolution was inequitable as they had to contribute compulsorily to the government. The tax was so unjust that its basis was the value of the goods of the commoners irrespective of the owner. The commoners were the sufferers due to the differing levels of the tax. The tax system finally led to bankruptcy of the government. High levels of unemployment and a rapid increase in the price of bread are secondary reasons responsible for the French Revolution.
Another major cause of the French Revolution is the rising antagonism between the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie. Food shortage caused by the agrarian crisis between 1788 and 1789 generated disorder and discontent in the public, which was also responsible for the Revolution. Louis XVI could not make the best use of his opportunities, which finally led to the inefficiency of the king. The concept of Enlightenment was another prime cause for the French Revolution as it led to conventional aristocratic constitutionalism and intensified the political conflicts within the country. It also introduced various new impressions of an efficient government, such as sovereignty. The need for a socio-economic change and change in the political culture within the country provoked the commoners to fight for their rights.