The Struggle To Survive

Question 1

What are the three main estates in France’s social structure?

Answer 1

1. Clergy
2. Nobility
3. Peasants and artisans

The clergy and nobility held significant power and privilege, while peasants and artisans made up the lower class.

Question 2

What does the term ‘subsistence crisis’ refer to?

Answer 2

An extreme situation where the basic means of livelihood are endangered

This often occurred during the Old Regime in France.

Question 3

In the etching ‘The Spider and the Fly’, who represents the spider and who represents the fly?

Answer 3

The nobleman is the spider, the peasant is the fly

This metaphor illustrates the exploitation of peasants by the nobility.

Question 4

What was the population of France in 1789?

Answer 4

28 million

This was an increase from about 23 million in 1715.

Question 5

What was the primary staple diet of the majority in France?

Answer 5

Bread

The demand for grain increased significantly as the population grew.

Question 6

True or False: Wages for workers in France kept pace with the increase in prices.

Answer 6

False

Wages did not keep pace with rising prices, widening the gap between the rich and the poor.

Question 7

What led to a rapid increase in the demand for grains in France?

Answer 7

The population rose from about 23 million in 1715 to 28 million in 1789

This rapid population growth created a strain on grain production.

Question 8

Fill in the blank: The more the devil has, the more he _______.

Answer 8

wants

This phrase reflects the insatiable greed of the nobility.

Question 9

What factors contributed to the worsening conditions for peasants and workers?

Answer 9

Drought, hail, reduced harvests

These factors led to subsistence crises and increased hardship.

Question 10

What was the role of laborers in workshops during the period?

Answer 10

They were employed by workshop owners who fixed their wages

This often resulted in workers earning less than what was necessary to survive.