The revolutions of 1830, 1848, and 1870 significantly impacted French working classes, spurring their organization and political consciousness. Despite initial betrayals and repression by the bourgeoisie, these uprisings fostered advances in labor rights, living standards, and democratic participation, ultimately leading to a more cohesive and recognized working class by the end of the century.
The translated academic study offers a detailed examination of 19th century French society, highlighting the impact of various revolutions that generally favored the bourgeois elite despite initial lower-class motivations. It discusses industrialization, improved living standards, and regional variations, while recognizing the rich data sometimes overwhelms the narrative. Overall, it remains a valuable read.
View More Review: A Social History of France in the 19th Century – by Christophe Charle