The document compares and contrasts the key causes and impacts of the French and American revolutions. Both revolutions sought political change and equality. The French Revolution was influenced by Enlightenment ideas and overthrew the monarchy, establishing new political and economic systems that benefited the middle class. It inspired other revolutions in Latin America. The American Revolution ended colonial rule by Britain and influenced the French Revolution.

1. French Revolution American Revolution
Wanted to change: Wanted to change:
Both
4.Political • Enlightenment 4.Taxes
influenced
5.Equality (taxation)
5.Social • Expanded political
rights 6.Problem with king
6.ECON • Inspired other rev in
• Ended colonial rule
Latin America
• Ended a monarchy • Changed: • Influenced the Fr Rev
• Middle class gains 6.Polt
7.ECON
power (bourgeoisie) 8.Social
• Led to Napoleon

2. French Revolution American Revolution
Wanted to change: Wanted to change:
Both
4. • 4.
5.
5. •
6.
6. •
•
• • Changed: •
• 9.
10.
11.
•

3. Causes and Characteristics of French and American
Revolutions
Political Economic Social
• Absolutism • American Revolution • Large population
French • The Three Estates • Big increase in bread (rich/poor)
Revolution • Bourgeoisie cost • Dirty life
• Bourgeoisie heavily • Absolutism
taxed
• “Acts” • Southern colonies • Coffee instead of tea
• Stamp Act only trade market is • Patriot vs Loyalist
American • No taxation without GB
Revolution representation • NE had no trade
market with GB

4. Causes and Characteristics of French and American
Revolutions
Political Economic Social
French
Revolution
American
Revolution