Socio-political conflict, social distance, and rent extraction in historical perspective

This paper uses French historical data covering four centuries to investigate how social distance, rent extraction, and pressure for reforms affect socio-political conflict. Social distance in itself does not systematically lead to socio-political conflict. Robust evidence is presented indicating that discretionary taxation spurs political violence more so than discretionary public spending. A peaceful rather than confrontational period is conducive for implementing reforms to enhance local democracy and reduce social inequality sought by ordinary inhabitants.