Final answer:
The French Revolution was primarily caused by an economic crisis, unfair tax system, and Enlightenment-inspired political pressures demanding reform.
Step-by-step explanation:
The causes of the French Revolution are complex and consisted of numerous factors, but a significant cause was indeed an economic crisis. France's financial distress was exacerbated by its involvement in other costly wars such as the support of the American Revolution, which led to soaring national debt. The French government, under King Louis XVI, also faced the challenge of an unfair tax system where the burden fell heavily on the commoners, while the nobility and clergy enjoyed privileges. Moreover, the rising demand for more say in government by the Third Estate, inspired by the Enlightenment ideas of liberty and equality, created political conflict. These factors combined to incite the general populace and drive the momentum that ultimately led to revolutionary actions.