The People (1846)

The People is a historical and sociological book written by the French historian Jules Michelet in 1846. The book provides a comprehensive account of the French Revolution and the role of the common people in shaping it. Michelet argues that the revolution was not only a political event but a social one, driven by the aspirations and struggles of the people. The book is divided into three parts, each of which explores a different aspect of the revolution. The first part focuses on the social and economic conditions that led to the revolution, including the poverty and oppression faced by the lower classes. The second part delves into the political events of the revolution, including the fall of the monarchy and the rise of the Jacobins. The third and final part examines the cultural and intellectual impact of the revolution, including the emergence of new ideas about freedom and democracy.Throughout the book, Michelet emphasizes the importance of the people in shaping history. He argues that the common people were not passive victims of the revolution but active participants who fought for their rights and freedoms. He also critiques the traditional view of history as a series of great men and events, instead highlighting the role of ordinary people in shaping the course of history.Overall, The People is a seminal work in the field of French history and a powerful testament to the importance of social and cultural factors in shaping political events. It remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the French Revolution and the role of the people in shaping modern democracy.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.