The Thermidorians & The Directory

The Thermidorians & The Directory examines the period of French history from 1794 to 1799, between the fall of Robespierre and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. This work analyzes the political, social and economic developments during this crucial transitional phase of the French Revolution. Georges Lefebvre details the actions and motivations of the Thermidorian faction who overthrew Robespierre, as well as the subsequent establishment of the Directory government. The text covers the various challenges faced by the new regime, including financial crises, popular unrest, and threats from both royalist and radical forces. Multiple coups, constitutional changes, and power struggles marked this unstable period, and Lefebvre traces these events through extensive primary source research. The book includes analysis of key figures like Paul Barras and Emmanuel Sieyès, along with examination of military campaigns and civilian life. The work stands as a critical study of how revolutionary ideals evolved under practical governance, and how attempts at establishing a moderate republic ultimately gave way to military dictatorship. Within this analysis emerge broader themes about the nature of revolutionary transformation and the challenges of establishing stable democratic institutions.

There are not enough internet reviews to create a summary of this book. Instead, here is a summary of reviews of Georges Lefebvre's overall work: Readers praise Lefebvre's clear explanations of complex social and economic factors during the French Revolution. Many note his ability to connect local events to larger historical movements through detailed research and statistics. What readers liked: - Clear writing style that makes academic content accessible - Deep analysis of peasant participation and local perspectives - Thorough use of primary sources and data - Balanced treatment of different social classes' roles What readers disliked: - Dense academic prose in some sections - Marxist interpretative framework feels dated to some - Limited coverage of cultural and religious factors - Some translations criticized as awkward Ratings: Goodreads: - "The Coming of the French Revolution": 4.0/5 (219 ratings) - "The Great Fear of 1789": 3.9/5 (67 ratings) Amazon: - "The Coming of the French Revolution": 4.3/5 (31 reviews) One reader noted: "Lefebvre presents complex economic data clearly without oversimplifying." Another commented: "His focus on peasant perspectives opened my eyes to new aspects of the revolution."

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🔷 Georges Lefebvre, the author, pioneered "history from below" - studying the French Revolution from the perspective of peasants and common people rather than just political leaders 🔷 The Thermidorian Reaction (1794-1795) got its name from the month of Thermidor in the French Republican Calendar, when Robespierre was overthrown, ending the Reign of Terror 🔷 During the Directory period (1795-1799), France experienced severe inflation with prices rising up to 3,000%, leading to widespread economic chaos and social unrest 🔷 The Directory government was the first French constitution to establish a bicameral legislature (two chambers), similar to the American system 🔷 Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power began during this period, as the Directory increasingly relied on the military to maintain control, ultimately leading to his coup d'état in 1799