3.1- The Three Estates
Revolutions
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French Nobility Divisions
- The French nobility was divided into the 'sword' (old money) and 'robe' nobility (new money).
- The sword nobility, despite their lineage, were often less wealthy than the robe nobility.
- The robe nobility had gained status through recently acquired positions or wealth, but were still looked down upon by the old nobility.
- Despite this divide, marriages between the two groups were common, especially to improve the financial standing of the old nobility.
- The wealthiest of the nobility, possessing both lineage and fortune, held influential positions and resided at Versailles.
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