Question

Why was the treasure empty during the reign of Louis XVI?

Answer 1

Hint: Before the French Revolution of 1789, the last Bourbon monarch of France is Louis XVI. He inherited the throne with an empty treasury. France was under tremendous debt. France experienced an economic crisis throughout the 1700s.

Complete answer:
The economic strain was experienced during the reign of Louis XVI due to the support provided by France in the American Revolution. There is a theory that there was limitless expenditure in order to maintain a luxurious lifestyle by Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette as well other Royalty which played an essential role in draining the coffers. A serious crisis was faced since there was a shortage of bread.
France under the rule of Louis XVI helped to gain independence from the 13 colonies of America. They had a common enemy which was Britain. The financial crisis was faced by France which drained since there was even cost to maintain an extravagant court at the magnificent palace of Versailles. A higher interest of about 10 percent was charged by money leaders on loan. The government was responsible to spend an increased amount in paying loans with higher interest. There was a huge amount of money needed to maintain court, army, government, universities and offices due to which the king was forced to increase tax since the tax was levied on only 3rd estate, the burden of tax made 3rd estate economically weak.

Note: The long war year drained France financially which eventually drained France economically. There was maintenance required for the palace of Versailles. Thirteen colonies of American with help from France gained independence. The war generated massive debt for France.