Why was the government’s decision to raise bread prices such a crucial cause of the french revolution? bread symbolized the french peasants’ hard labor, and raising its prices symbolized the government’s disrespect. bread was associated with french pride and honor, and people felt the king was insulting them by increasing its prices. bread was a staple food item in french households, and the lack of it probably pushed the already starving citizens over the edge. bread was a rare commodity in france, and higher prices made it even harder to obtain.