Monday, June 24, 2013

Chapter 27 Georges Lefebvre

Georges Lefebvre was one of France's most controversial historians. His work on the French Revolution influence historians. While is influence is undeniable, what has been debated among historians was his use of Marxism in his study of the revolution and his socialist ties. As noted in the chapter, he has supporters who still view is work on the revolution still relevant. His first book about peasants in the Nord region reflected his growing social awareness. Soon after his first book, he was introduced to the Annales school. His book The Great Fear of 1789: Rural Panic in Revolutionary France became an important look at peasant life during the revolution. He used grievances lists to rte peasant life. This work enhanced his reputation among historians. The growing political environment no doubt influenced his work and career. When war broke out, his work was deemed subversive and his reputation suffered. After the war, he retired but continued to study and write. His work La Revoultion francaise became the most standard text on the revolution. Lefebvre's career was like the era he lived in: turbulent but productive at the same time.

Should historians look at political alliances while studying another historians work?

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