Final answer:
Before the French Revolution, the common people faced financial crisis, poor harvests, social injustices, profound wealth inequality, limited rights, lack of political power, religious restrictions, unemployment, and poverty.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before the French Revolution, the common people in France faced several harsh conditions. Here are eight characteristics:
- Financial Crisis: France was facing severe economic problems, with the country being nearly bankrupt.
- Poor Harvests: There were frequent crop failures, leading to food shortages and hunger among ordinary people.
- Social Injustices: The lower classes suffered from neglect and corruption by the government, which contributed to their grievances.
- Profound Wealth Inequality: The majority of land and wealth were controlled by the First and Second Estates (nobility and clergy), while the Third Estate (commoners) faced a heavy burden of labor and taxes.
- Limited Rights: The common people had limited rights and freedoms compared to the nobility and clergy.
- Lack of Political Power: The lower classes were excluded from political power, leading to a growing resentment among the middle class.
- Religious Restrictions: The common people faced restrictions and discrimination based on their religious beliefs.
- Unemployment and Poverty: Many commoners were unemployed and lived in poverty, struggling to provide for their families.