Ancien R�gime
The old order of social classes in France consiting of three estates. They were number 1-3, 1 being the clergy, 2 the nobility, and 3 everyone else.
Jacques Necker
A financial expert and advisor to Louis XVI.
Estates
Social classes.
Estates-General
The legislative body consisting of representatives of the three estates.
Bourgeoisie
The middle class, a part of the third estate.
Cahiers
Notebooks listing the grievences of the french.
Deficit Spending
When a government spends more than it takes in.
Tennis Court Oath
A vow made by members of the 3rd estate not to disband until a sound and just constitution was written.
Louis XVI
The weak, indecisive king of France at the time of the French Revolution.
Bastille
The medieval fortress used as a prison for political and other prisoners.