What was a key cause of peasant grievances in France prior to the revolution?

Peasant grievances in France prior to the Revolution were significantly driven by the burden of feudal dues and harsh taxes. Under the feudal system, peasants were often obligated to pay various fees to landlords for the use of land, as well as taxes imposed by the government. These financial demands made it difficult for peasants to sustain their livelihoods, especially when coupled with poor harvests and rising food prices.

Feudal dues included payments for the right to work the land, as well as additional costs for activities such as grinding grain or using the village oven, which added to their financial strain. Harsh taxes often fell disproportionately on the lower classes, while the wealthier estates found ways to avoid many tax obligations. This combination of economic hardship and lack of representation in the decision-making process led to widespread dissatisfaction among the peasant population, ultimately contributing to the larger revolutionary sentiments stirring across France.