# Calonne proposes sweeping fiscal reform (1786)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1786-calonne-proposes-sweeping-fiscal-reform
Location: France

The controller-general proposed a universal land tax and other measures to address state insolvency. Within the broader Bourbon & Ancien Régime period, Bourbon France became a leading European power through stronger royal government, global expansion, war and court culture. Fiscal strain, social privilege and Enlightenment criticism accumulated beneath the apparent strength of the Ancien Régime. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Louis XVI (King of France). Calonne proposes sweeping fiscal reform mattered because it changed material life, state capacity, economic networks or France’s ability to project power. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Calonne proposes sweeping fiscal reform mattered because it changed material life, state capacity, economic networks or France’s ability to project power.

Ruler at the time: [Louis XVI](https://history-france.com/rulers/louis-xvi)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Calonne proposes sweeping fiscal reform](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Calonne+proposes+sweeping+fiscal+reform&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Calonne proposes sweeping fiscal reform](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Calonne+proposes+sweeping+fiscal+reform)
- [Wikipedia — Timeline of French history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_French_history)