Jules Michelet

Jules Michelet (1798-1874) was a prominent French historian and a key figure in romantic historiography. He studied at the University of Paris and became a professor at the École Normale Supérieure in 1827, later attracting hundreds of students at the Collège de France with his passionate lectures. Known for his support of the Romanian cause, Michelet contributed both through his writings and moral support for the Romanian revolutionaries of 1848. His major works include Histoire de France and Histoire de la Révolution française. Despite political adversity, including being dismissed from the Collège de France in 1852 for his refusal to swear allegiance to the new regime, he continued to influence both French and Romanian intellectuals. Michelet's approach to history was marked by his belief in reviving the past to inspire present struggles for freedom, using narrative and intuition over rigorous analysis. His legacy remains significant, particularly in his support for Romanian progressives, whom he encouraged during their difficult times.