... in the outbreak of revolution in France in 1789 was long term economic problems. The lack of taxation from the first and second estates meant that the highest wage earners, mostly in the second estate, were not contributing to the countries economy. As soon as members of the third estate earned enough money they would purchase a title which would mean that they no longer had to pay the taxes of the third estate. As well as causing major economic problems, it also built up bad feeling within the third estate. Also, a series of bad harvests beginning in 1730 meant that food prices were increasing (by around 48% from 1730-89) whereas wages were not increasing by as large an amount (11%). 88% of workers wages were spent on bread alone by 1789. Two other trades were used mainly to supplement farm workers earnings, these were weaving and wine making. ...

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