Estate

Real World Example

In historical Europe, the concept of estates referred to a social hierarchy divided into three main classes: the clergy (First Estate), the nobility (Second Estate), and commoners (Third Estate). This system was important during the Revolution and Expansion periods because it highlighted social inequalities, particularly leading up to the French Revolution, where commoners demanded more rights and representation. The estates system responded to issues of power and privilege, questioning the fairness of a society where the majority had little say in governance. Today, while we don't use estates, the idea of social classes still matters, as people often face opportunities or limitations based on their socio-economic status. For example, access to quality education can still be influenced by a family's financial situation, affecting a person's future career and lifestyle.