The term 'ANCIEN REGIME' refers to the political and social system of France prior to the French Revolution in 1789. It was characterized by a hierarchical structure of power, with the monarchy at the top and the peasantry at the bottom. The Medes were an ancient Iranian people who lived in what is now modern-day Iran. They were known for their powerful empire, which lasted from the 7th century BC to the 6th century BC.