American Independence and 18th Century Social Structures

Global Events and the Shift in Social Structures

The external background of this era involves various events worldwide, starting from the eighteenth century, which served to alter the existing structure. This movement culminates with the American colonies and a significant change in social policy structures.

External Factors: Independence of the 13 Colonies

During the seventeenth century in England, a migration process was triggered by English traders rejecting commercial monopolies. Those who were persecuted for their religion sought an alternative, finding the conditions to settle in America to:

• Experience wild adventures and civilize the territories.
• Achieve economic development.

By the eighteenth century, these colonies became hotbeds of development.

The Struggle Against British Monopoly

England maintained a commercial monopoly over its colonies, prohibiting trade between them and levying heavy taxes while maintaining the exclusivity of products. Before the revolution, American colonists—disguised as Indians—raided ships to fight the monopoly. Subsequently, patriotic leagues began to form. They fought the British with assistance from France and Spain. This movement ended on July 4, 1776, and was headed by George Washington, along with the signatures of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.

Social Organization and the Estate System

Social organization was divided into estates: the high nobility or clergy, and the commons, which included peasants and serfs (the text notes these last three did not pay taxes). At the top of this hierarchy stood the King, as lord and master.

The Hierarchy of Nobility

The nobility was further divided into:

• Nobility of Blood: Relatives of the King.
• Nobility of the Robe (Toga): Those who provided service to the King (non-inheritable).
• Nobility of the Sword: Military services rendered to the King.

The Privileged Clergy and the Court

At the same level as the high nobility was the ecclesiastical hierarchy, which owned territories and received the tithe (diesmo) of agricultural production. This privileged group is considered tax-exempt and lived enjoying all privileges, including parties and banquets. King Louis XIV built the Palace of Versailles to rally the nobility to his court.

The Third Estate and the Bourgeoisie

The state level, consisting of all non-nobles, was also divided by rank and fortune based on profession and studies:

• Gentry: Bankers and rich merchants.
• Middle Bourgeoisie: Doctors, lawyers, and professors.
• Petty Bourgeoisie: Craftsmen, laborers, and small traders.
• Peasants: Able to survive by exploiting their small farms.
• Servants: Not true slaves, but living in subservience.