What?: The legislative assembly of France made up of representatives from the three "estates" (the clergy, nobles and common people).
Where?: Paris, France
When?: 1302-1789
Who?: The leaders of France
Why?: France was on the verge of bankruptcy and the King needed the Estates-General to approve a tax increase.
How?: Each estate received one vote. It required the votes of two estates to pass the tax increase.
Importance: The calling of the Estates-General helped spark the French Revolution. The Third Estate rebelled against supporting the tax increase and the unfair voting system. The Third Estate refused to sit for the vote and instead formed the National Assembly eventually writing the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen.
Related Terms: Class System, Bourgeoisie, Noble, Clergy
Created By: Carlo L. (11) Daianara L. (11) and Matt M. (11)