**Clergy in the French Revolution**

The French Revolution, which took place from 1789 to 1799, was a period of radical social and political change in France. It was marked by the overthrow of the Bourbon monarchy, the rise of radical political factions, and the eventual establishment of the First French Republic. The revolution had a profound impact on all aspects of French society, including the role and status of the clergy.

**Role of the Clergy in Pre-revolutionary France**

Before the revolution, the clergy in France held significant power and privilege. They were part of the First Estate, which also included the nobility, while the Third Estate consisted of the common people. The clergy were exempt from paying taxes and enjoyed various other privileges, such as collecting tithes and owning vast amounts of land.

**Clergy and the Estates-General**

The Estates-General was a representative assembly that consisted of representatives from the three estates. It was convened by King Louis XVI in 1789 to address the financial crisis in France. The clergy played a crucial role in the Estates-General, as they were seen as representatives of the Church and had a significant influence over religious and social matters.

**Clergy and the National Assembly**

The Estates-General transformed into the National Assembly during the revolution. In June 1789, the clergy, along with members of the Third Estate, declared themselves as the National Assembly and sought to draft a new constitution for France. This marked a significant shift in power, as the clergy aligned themselves with the common people against the monarchy and nobility.

**Civil Constitution of the Clergy**

In 1790, the National Assembly passed the Civil Constitution of the Clergy, which aimed to bring the clergy under state control. This law mandated that bishops and priests be elected by the people and that they swear an oath of loyalty to the state. It also confiscated Church lands and abolished monastic orders. These measures were met with resistance by many clergy members who remained loyal to the Catholic Church.

**Conclusion**

The role of the clergy in the French Revolution was complex and varied. While some clergy members supported the revolutionary ideals of liberty and equality, others remained loyal to the Church and resisted the reforms. The revolution fundamentally transformed the position of the clergy in French society and marked a shift towards secularization and state control over religious institutions.

People of first estate who were priest in church were called clergy.
And if you want to understand it than here's it-
In India You See classes like general, OBC and SC/ST these have their position on ladder.
brahmins are known as clergy there. nobles had a position of Kshatriya and all others are 3rd estate