French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)

1.09 The Estates General

Dec 14, 2019

This episode explores the events of the Estates General meeting during the French Revolution, including the impact of food scarcity and the bloody consequences. It discusses the connection between hunger and revolutions, as well as the hardships faced by the French people. The chapter also delves into the lead-up to the meeting and the riots that ensued. It highlights the insults and slights experienced by the third estate during the grand opening ceremony, setting a poor start for the Estates General.

50:40

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Food scarcity and rising grain prices led to increased expenses and growing frustration among the French population.

The opening ceremony of the Estates General resulted in dissatisfaction, division, and deadlock among the different orders.

Deep dives

Hunger and Hardship in France

The French people on the eve of the revolution experienced severe hunger and economic hardship. Crop failures and rising grain prices contributed to increased expenses on food, with the average Frenchman spending roughly 50% of their income on it. The harsh winter of 1788-1789 exacerbated the situation, causing further scarcity and skyrocketing prices. The impoverished countryside, along with unemployed factory workers in regional capitals, added to the growing frustrations and tensions of the French population.

Introduction

2min

The Hungry French: The Connection Between Hunger and Revolution

2min

Hardships and Suffering on the Eve of the Revolution

7min

The Lead-Up to the Estates General Meeting and the Revlion Riots

5min

The Grand Opening Ceremony and Insults to the Third Estate

5min

The Opening Ceremony and Disappointment

26min

While the Estates General gathered at Versailles, new problems emerged. Already facing unprecedented challenges, the French government had to grapple with an age-old foe. Starvation. Scarcity of food resulted in bloody consequences, including theRéveillon riots of April 1789.

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The Estates General

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About

Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon is a podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of our history. By examining both the experiences of contemporaries and the conclusions of historians, Grey History seeks to unpack the ambiguities and nuances of the past. Understanding the French Revolution and the age of Napoleon is critical to understanding the history of the world, so join us on a journey through a series of events that would be almost unbelievable if it weren't for the fact that it's true! If you're looking for a binge-worthy history podcast on the Revolution and Napoleon, you're in the right place! Enjoy Revolutions? This is for you!

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