Benjamin Nicolas Marie Appert

Benjamin Nicolas Marie Appert

French philanthropist, writer and publicist
Date of Birth: 10.09.1797
Country: France

Content:
  1. Benjamin Nicolas Marie Appert
  2. Dedication to Mutual Learning
  3. Establishment of Normal Schools
  4. Imprisonment and Travel
  5. International Inspections
  6. Advocacy for Prison Reform
  7. Legacy

Benjamin Nicolas Marie Appert

Early Life and Education

Born in Paris, France, on September 10, 1797, Benjamin Nicolas Marie Appert received his education at the Imperial Drawing School.

Dedication to Mutual Learning

From 1816 onward, Appert dedicated himself to implementing methods of mutual learning. His first experiments were conducted in the Northern Department, followed by successful applications in hospital and regimental schools.

Establishment of Normal Schools

In 1818, Appert was summoned to Paris and tasked with establishing a "Normal School for Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers." Two years later, he organized a school at a military prison in Montgu, where he taught without compensation until 1822.

Imprisonment and Travel

Appert's accusation of aiding in the escape of two prisoners led to his imprisonment at La Force prison. Upon his release in 1825, he embarked on a journey to inspect prisons, schools, and charitable institutions throughout France. During this period, he founded the "Journal des prisons" (1826-1830).

International Inspections

In 1846, Appert traveled abroad to examine Belgian prisons, followed by Prussian prisons in 1847. After the February Revolution in France, he continued his inspections in Saxony, Bavaria, and Austria.

Advocacy for Prison Reform

Through his writings, Appert strongly denounced the practice of solitary confinement. He published numerous works based on his observations and called for substantial reforms in prison systems.

Legacy

Benjamin Nicolas Marie Appert passed away unexpectedly in 1847. His contributions to education and prison reform left a lasting impact on French society.

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