Who paid taxes to the state of France in 1789?

In 1789, the primary taxpayers in France were members of the Third Estate, which included commoners such as peasants, workers, and the bourgeoisie. They bore the burden of the majority of taxes, including direct taxes like the taille and indirect taxes on goods. In contrast, the nobility and clergy, representing the First and Second Estates, were largely exempt from many taxes, leading to widespread discontent and contributing to the onset of the French Revolution. This inequitable tax system was a significant factor in the call for reform and social change.