Fair Shares for All: Jacobin Egalitarianism in Practice

by Jean-Pierre Gross

Overview

This revisionist study challenges those readings of the French Revolution that see it as inherently violent and intolerant, often in terms of the Terror alone, and explores the egalitarian policies pursued in the provinces. The mainstream Jacobin agenda held out the promise of "fair shares" and equal opportunities for all in a private ownership market economy. Moreover it sought to achieve social justice without jeopardizing human rights. Thus it tended to complement, rather than undermine, the liberal, individualist program of the Revolution.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521563185
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	12/05/1996
Series:	Past and Present Publications
Pages:	276
Product dimensions:	5.51(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.75(d)

Table of Contents

Introduction; 1. The Jacobin mainstream and the Robespierrist conspiracy; 2. The family ethos and the common happiness; 3. Food rationing, collectivism and the market economy; 4. Land tenure, shelter and the right of ownership; 5. Progressive taxation and the fair distribution of wealth; 6. Jobs for all and to each a fair deal; 7. A place at school and a time for rejoicing.

Editorial Reviews

"This book is a welcome addition to the historiography of the French Revolution on a number of counts. It has been well researched, utilizing both local and national archives and libraries; it is a well-conceived and well-organized study; the author is both economical and eloquent in his prose; and the book has been well produced. It will be essential reading for those interested in the Jacobin political project, the activities in the provinces of the 'representatives on mission' and the 'other side' of the Terror." Paul R. Hanson, Journal of Interdisciplinary History

"This short and pithy book is one of the refreshing and stimulating essays on the Terror of the French Revolution to appear in many years, if only because it challenges so much of the dominant recent scholarship." Gary Kates, American Historical Review

From the Publisher