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Charles Alexandre CalonneFrench statesman.
Date of Birth: 20.01.1734
Country:  France |
Content:
- Charles Alexandre de Calonne
- Rise to Power
- Financial Maneuvers
- Proposals for Reform
- Assembly of Notables
- Exile and Later Life
Charles Alexandre de Calonne
Charles Alexandre de Calonne was a French statesman born in Douai, France, in 1734. He received his education in Paris and held various legal and administrative positions before becoming a general controller, the equivalent of Minister of Finance, in 1783.
Rise to Power
Calonne's friends at the court of Louis XVI portrayed him as the man capable of resolving France's mounting financial crisis, which included an annual budget deficit of 50 million. With taxes widely unpopular and attempts at austerity having failed, he turned to borrowing.
Financial Maneuvers
Calonne's first loan of 100 million in 1783 was a success, but it was quickly followed by another loan of 125 million in 1784. These loans, together with lavish royal spending, exacerbated the deficit and raised public alarm.
Proposals for Reform
Recognizing the growing crisis, Calonne proposed a series of reforms, many of which had been previously advocated by Turgot and Necker. These reforms included the creation of provincial assemblies, the abolition of certain privileges, and the sale of state property to fund government expenses.
Assembly of Notables
To win public support, Calonne convinced Louis XVI to convene an Assembly of Notables in 1787. However, the notables, representing only the privileged classes, opposed his proposals, and he was forced to resign on April 20, 1787.
Exile and Later Life
During the French Revolution, Calonne lived in exile in England, where he actively supported the enemies of the republic. After the establishment of the Consulate under Napoleon Bonaparte, he obtained permission to return to France, where he died in 1802.
