To begin with, the American Revolution inspired the French people who were seeking reform in their own country. Throughout the eighteenth century, Enlightenment ideas caused people to think twice about the structure of their society. The French middle class and several nobles were very impressed with ideas such as the social contract and freedom of speech. Also they were inspired how the Americans threw off an oppressive government.
Secondly, in 1789, Louis XVI's government was about to go bankrupt. In extreme anxiety, Louis wanted to raise taxes and called into the Estates General.…
