meeting of the esates general- may to june 1789

- events -significance

how did EG open on 4th may

ceremonial parade

what did clergy and nobility wear

colourful attire

what did 3rd esate wear

black

first estate composition

• 330 clergy, 75% lower clergy, 46 bishops

• dominated by parish priests, wanting higher stipends, higher office access, greater church control on education and limited toleration of Protestantism

second estate composition

• 278 nobles

• dominated by conservatives

• 1/3 were more liberal, willing to give up financial privileges

third estate composition

• 604 deputies

• mainly bourgeoisie lawyers, landowners, office holders

• only 2 peasant deputies from Brittany

separate meetings- Louis’ decision

• led to immediate arise of conflict

• third estate opposed it

voting disputes

by head or order, third estate preferring the former