Which groups of French society benefited from the revolution? Which groups were forced to relinquish power? Which sections of society would have been disappointed with the outcome of the revolution?
The Third Estate hugely benefited from revolution. This comprised the professional classes, small and big businessmen, small and big peasants, landless labourers and servants. Most of them got land to till, the burden of taxation was removed and rule of law was established.
The First and Second Estate were forced to relinquish power, the churches were shutdown and the church property was confiscated. The predominance of First and Second Estate over administration, social and economic privileges were abolished and equality was established.
The common people were disappointed with the outcome of the revolution. Although principles of equality, liberty and fraternity were implemented in France, the French society remained a divided house between haves and havenots.
Describe the circumstances leading to the outbreak of revolutionary protest in France.
Describe the legacy of the French Revolution for the people of the world during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
Draw up a list of democratic rights we enjoy today whose origins could be traced to the French Revolution.
Would you agree with the view that the message of universal rights was beset with contradictions? Explain.
