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French Army Dysfunction
- The French army was dysfunctional in 1789, impacting Louis XVI's ability to quell uprisings.
- Distrust among officers and soldiers, coupled with resentment over reforms, left the army unreliable.
Ségur Ordinance and Military Reforms
- The Ségur Ordinance of 1781 restricted new nobles' military advancement, causing resentment among talented soldiers.
- This, combined with later reforms that alienated senior officers, further weakened the army.
Gilbert's Reforms
- Comte de Gilbert's military reforms aimed to improve the French army but faced resistance.
- While increasing soldier pay, stricter discipline and aristocratic favoritism demoralized many.