Introduction:
Russian and French peasants had distinct differences in terms of their social, economic, and political conditions during the medieval and early modern periods. These disparities stemmed from variations in their respective feudal systems, agricultural practices, and political contexts.

Social Structure:
1. Russian Peasants:
- Russian peasants were divided into two main groups: serfs and free peasants.
- Serfs were legally bound to their landlords, working on their land and paying rent in the form of labor or produce.
- Free peasants, on the other hand, had more autonomy and were able to own their land.

2. French Peasants:
- French peasants were also divided into two groups: seigneurial peasants and free peasants.
- Seigneurial peasants were obligated to work on their lord's land and pay various dues and fees.
- Free peasants had more freedom and were able to own their land, although they still had to pay taxes and other obligations to their feudal lords.

Economic Conditions:
1. Russian Peasants:
- Russian peasants were primarily engaged in agriculture, cultivating crops such as rye, wheat, and barley.
- They often practiced subsistence farming, meaning they grew enough food to sustain their own families.
- The harsh climate and vast size of Russia posed challenges for agricultural productivity.

2. French Peasants:
- French peasants also relied heavily on agriculture, cultivating crops like wheat, oats, and barley.
- They often practiced a more diversified form of farming, incorporating livestock rearing and vineyards.
- The fertile soil and favorable climate in some regions of France contributed to higher agricultural productivity compared to Russia.

Political Context:
1. Russian Peasants:
- The Russian peasantry was subjected to the autocratic rule of the tsars, who held absolute power.
- The serfs had limited rights and were subject to the whims of their landlords.
- The Russian Orthodox Church played a significant role in the lives of peasants, providing spiritual guidance and support.

2. French Peasants:
- French peasants experienced a more complex political landscape, marked by the feudal system and the monarchy.
- They faced increasing taxation and exploitation from the nobility and clergy, leading to discontent and social unrest.
- The French Revolution in the late 18th century brought significant changes to the rights and status of peasants.

Conclusion:
Russian and French peasants differed in terms of their social structure, economic conditions, and political context. While Russian peasants were divided into serfs and free peasants, French peasants were classified as seigneurial peasants and free peasants. Russian peasants primarily practiced subsistence farming, while French peasants had a more diversified approach to agriculture. The political context also varied, with Russian peasants living under autocratic rule, and French peasants experiencing a more complex feudal system. Understanding these differences provides insights into the distinct experiences of peasants in these two countries.