Equal Division of Land: In another revolutionary step, the National Assembly focused on the agricultural sector. It enacted legislation to subdivide communal land and forests, which were commonly held by the nobility, into smaller parcels for redistribution among the peasants. This action not only reduced the privileges associated with land ownership but also provided economic opportunities to the rural population by creating a greater number of small landowners.
Sale of Confiscated Lands: The confiscated Church lands, along with other confiscated properties, were put up for sale to generate funds for the government. However, the majority of these lands were acquired by the bourgeoisie due to their ability to accumulate wealth. While the nobility lost their dominance over land, a new group of wealthy landowners emerged, and economic disparities persisted to a certain extent.
Issuance of Assignats: To address short-term financial needs, the National Assembly authorized the issuance of assignats, which were government-backed paper money guaranteed by the value of confiscated lands. Initially, assignats helped provide liquidity in both the public and private sectors, leading to a temporary economic revival. However, the continuous and massive issuance of assignats eventually led to hyperinflation, wiping out the benefits of the earlier economic measures.
Creation of a Uniform Monetary System: The National Assembly also attempted to rectify the complex system of currency and units of measurement across France. It standardized weights, measures, and coinage to facilitate the free flow of goods and services throughout the country, encouraging economic integration and growth.
Abolition of Feudal Privileges: The assembly's revolutionary agenda challenged feudal economic structures. Feudal obligations such as tolls and tithes, along with the exclusive rights of noble landlords, were eradicated, resulting in a more free and flexible market environment.
In summary, the National Assembly applied revolutionary ideas to the economy by confiscating Church lands and properties, redistributing land through equal divisions, selling nationalized lands, issuing assignats, creating a uniform monetary system, and abolishing feudal privileges. While some of these measures were effective in addressing immediate financial challenges, others had unintended consequences, particularly the hyperinflation caused by excessive issuance of assignats, which ultimately undermined economic stability.