jacquerie

Jacquerie, also known as the Jacquerie of Paris, was a peasant uprising that took place in Paris in 1358. The term "Jacquerie" is derived from the French word "jacque," which means "Jack," a common name among the lower classes. The uprising was a response to the harsh economic conditions and high taxes imposed by the French monarchy during the Hundred Years' War.

The Jacquerie began on May 31, 1358, when a group of peasants, led by a man named Jacques Le Maréchal, stormed the Hôtel des Monnaies, the royal mint, and seized the coins. The rebels then marched through the streets of Paris, demanding the release of prisoners and the reduction of taxes. The uprising was met with violence by the royal army, and many rebels were killed or arrested.

The Jacquerie was ultimately suppressed, but it had a significant impact on the political and social landscape of France. The uprising highlighted the growing discontent among the peasantry and the need for reform. It also led to the establishment of the Estates-General, a representative assembly of the French people, which would later play a crucial role in the French Revolution.

The Jacquerie is often seen as a precursor to the French Revolution, as it demonstrated the potential for popular uprisings against the monarchy. It also highlighted the need for political and social reform to address the grievances of the common people. The Jacquerie remains an important event in French history, serving as a reminder of the struggles and aspirations of the working class.