The First Public Test of the Aristocracy

Decar encouraged debate by freeing journalists jailed for previous works and lifting ban on private clubs. He hoped that the resulting debate would divide the nobility from the commoners. Almost immediately, a broad public consensus formed around the idea of doubling the representation of the third estate. The aristocracy was concerned about losing control should such a democratic body be convened. So when the paris parliament reconvened, it would be the first public test the aristocracy's commitment to the public good. And they failed it badly, fatally.