The "Old Regime" refers to the political and social system in France before the French Revolution of 1789. It was characterized by absolute monarchy, where the king held significant power, and a rigid class structure divided into three estates: the clergy, the nobility, and the common people. This system created widespread inequality and discontent among the lower classes. The Old Regime also included feudal privileges for the nobility and heavy taxation on the common people, which contributed to economic hardship. The dissatisfaction with this system ultimately led to revolutionary movements, aiming to establish a more equitable society and challenge the authority of the monarchy, represented by figures like Louis XVI.