how were the economic conditions in France and the American colonies before their revolutions similar and how were they different?
Your answers are in this article.
http://www.pbs.org/marieantoinette/revolution/america_france.html
To understand the economic conditions in France and the American colonies before their revolutions, we need to examine both their similarities and differences. Here's how you can analyze this topic:
1. Research the economic conditions in France before the French Revolution:
- Look into the French Ancien Régime, the social and political system in place at the time.
- Study the economic structure, which was characterized by feudalism, heavy taxation, and inequality.
- Examine the significant influence of the French monarchy and the nobility on the economy.
- Understand the economic grievances and hardships faced by the common people, such as rising bread prices and unemployment.
2. Research the economic conditions in the American colonies before the American Revolution:
- Explore the economic relationship between the colonies and Britain.
- Study the mercantilist policies imposed by Britain, restricting trade and benefiting the British economy.
- Analyze the impact of taxation measures, such as the Sugar Act and the Stamp Act, on the colonists.
- Understand the development of a diverse colonial economy, including agriculture, trade, and manufacturing.
3. Identify the similarities between the economic conditions:
- Both France and the American colonies experienced a sense of economic inequality and unfair taxation.
- The common people in both regions faced economic hardships and struggled to make ends meet.
- Both societies had grievances related to the concentration of economic power in the hands of a privileged few.
4. Identify the differences between the economic conditions:
- In France, the economic system was largely feudalistic, whereas the American colonies had a more diverse economic structure.
- The American colonies were more directly affected by British mercantilist policies, while France's economic constraints were more internal.
- The level of economic disparity, particularly with regards to social classes, was generally more extreme in France compared to the American colonies.
By thoroughly researching and comparing the economic conditions in France and the American colonies, you will be able to identify their similarities and differences, providing a solid foundation for understanding the causes and motivations behind their respective revolutions.