Select the 4 options that were causes of the French Revolution
Question 1 options:
the king ruled by divine right and had unlimited power
French residents were denied the right to move West
the country was bankrupt
it was inspired by Enlightenment Philosophers
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The four options that were causes of the French Revolution are:
- The king ruled by divine right and had unlimited power.
- The country was bankrupt.
- It was inspired by Enlightenment Philosophers.
Explanation
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a complex event with multiple causes that interlinked political, social, and economic issues.
1. Divine Right and Unlimited Power: Louis XVI’s belief in the divine right of kings, which held that monarchs were chosen by God and had absolute authority, created widespread discontent. This autocratic governance left the common people feeling oppressed and voiceless. The inability to influence political decisions led to growing resentment towards the monarchy, particularly among the bourgeoisie (middle class), who were educated and influenced by Enlightenment ideas advocating for democracy and individual rights.
2. Bankruptcy: France’s financial crisis was a critical catalyst for revolution. Years of extravagant spending by the monarchy, coupled with costly involvement in foreign wars (like the American Revolution), left the nation nearly bankrupt. The government attempted to solve its financial woes by taxing the lower classes, which further inflamed public anger. The financial burden was disproportionately shouldered by the Third Estate (common people), leading to widespread calls for reform and justice.
3. Enlightenment Philosophers: Enlightenment thinkers such as Rousseau, Voltaire, and Montesquieu promoted ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Their writings inspired the French populace to question the existing societal structures and seek reform. The principles of popular sovereignty and the social contract challenged the divine right of kings, advocating for a government accountable to the people. This ideological shift was instrumental in mobilizing citizens towards revolutionary action, culminating in demands for political rights and social equality.
In conclusion, the French Revolution was fueled by a combination of autocratic rule, financial hardship, and the influence of Enlightenment thought, leading to a dramatic transformation in French society and government.