The major cause of the French Revolution in 1789 was the widespread discontent with social inequality and financial instability in France. Burdened by heavy taxation, the Third Estate (commoners) faced famine and economic hardship while the nobility enjoyed privileges. Enlightenment ideas encouraging liberty, equality, and fraternity further fueled revolutionary sentiments. The financial crisis, exacerbated by extravagant royal spending and involvement in foreign wars, compelled the populace to challenge the monarch's authority and demand systemic reform.