Explain the role of Bourbon dynast under king Louis xvi in the occurrence of the 1789-1798 with 7 points?
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Feb 12
1. Inherited Monarchy: The Bourbon dynasty, with Louis XVI as the king, held the hereditary monarchy of France. This meant that power was passed down through generations within the Bourbon family, giving them significant influence and control over the country.
2. Financial Crisis: The Bourbon dynasty played a role in the occurrence of the French Revolution due to the severe financial crisis that plagued France during Louis XVI's reign. The extravagant spending of the monarchy, combined with the country's involvement in costly wars, led to a massive debt burden that the king struggled to manage effectively.
3. Ineffectiveness of Louis XVI: Louis XVI's reign was marked by his inability to address the economic and social issues facing France. He was seen as indecisive and weak, often relying on advisors who were out of touch with the needs of the people. This lack of effective leadership contributed to the growing discontent among the French population.
4. Enlightenment Ideas: The Bourbon dynasty's role in the occurrence of the French Revolution can also be attributed to the influence of Enlightenment ideas. Intellectuals and philosophers of the time, such as Voltaire and Rousseau, challenged the traditional authority of the monarchy and advocated for more democratic principles. These ideas spread among the educated classes and fueled the desire for political and social change.
5. Social Inequality: The Bourbon dynasty's rule was characterized by a rigid social hierarchy, with the king and nobility enjoying privileges and wealth while the majority of the population, especially the peasants, faced poverty and hardship. This stark social inequality created resentment and a desire for change among the lower classes, contributing to the revolutionary sentiment.
6. Failure to Reform: Despite recognizing the need for reforms, Louis XVI and the Bourbon dynasty failed to implement significant changes. Attempts at reform, such as the convening of the Estates-General in 1789, were met with resistance and ultimately failed to address the underlying issues. This failure to enact meaningful reforms further fueled the revolutionary fervor.
7. Execution of Louis XVI: The Bourbon dynasty's role in the occurrence of the French Revolution is also evident in the execution of Louis XVI. The king's perceived betrayal of the revolution and his attempts to escape France led to his arrest and subsequent trial. His execution in 1793 symbolized the end of the Bourbon monarchy and further intensified the revolutionary spirit, leading to the radical phase of the revolution.