Three Estates in 18th Century French Society
The 18th-century French society was divided into three Estates, which were based on the social hierarchy and played a significant role in the political structure of the time.

First Estate: Clergy
- The First Estate consisted of the clergy, including bishops, priests, and other religious leaders.
- They held significant power and influence in society, owning vast amounts of land and wealth.
- They were exempt from many taxes and played a crucial role in maintaining social order and providing spiritual guidance to the people.

Second Estate: Nobility
- The Second Estate comprised the nobility, including aristocrats, landowners, and other wealthy individuals.
- They held considerable political power, often serving in high-ranking positions in the government and military.
- They were also exempt from many taxes and enjoyed privileges that the common people did not have.

Third Estate: Commoners
- The Third Estate was the largest and most diverse group, consisting of commoners, peasants, merchants, and professionals.
- They were burdened with heavy taxes and had little political power compared to the clergy and nobility.
- Many members of the Third Estate were discontent with their situation, leading to social unrest and eventually the French Revolution.
In conclusion, the division of French society into the three Estates highlighted the unequal distribution of power, wealth, and privilege among different social classes. This social structure played a crucial role in shaping the events that led to the French Revolution and the eventual downfall of the monarchy.