Agriculture and society

• Three-field system

  The village divided the land into three open fields, one of which was left fallow every three years. The cattle grazed and fertilized the fallow land
• Non-privileged Classes


  • Peasants
  • Servs
  • Artisans
  • Traders
  • Rich members of the bourgeoisie
• Regular subsistence crises occurred due to bad weather and droughts, often leading to popular revolts
• Colonial trade routes and products

  Around 1750
• Despite economic differences, most of the population in the Third Estate shared the same limited rights
• In the 18th century, the societies of the Ancient Régime dominated Europe. Their economy was based on traditional farming, and they were divided into social classes and governed by absolute monarchies
• Privileged Classes


  • The nobility owned land and property associated with a noble title or house, and the firstborn son inherited these
  • The Church received tithes (a tax equivalent to 10% of the harvest) from the peasants and owned large properties linked to the diocese, convent, or parish. The higher clergy had privileges because of their noble origin. The lower clergy lived modestly, although the Church provided them with accommodation and food
• The Triangular Trade involved colonial trade routes and products around 1750