Edouard Rene Lefebvre de Laboulaye

Edouard Rene Lefebvre de Laboulaye

French writer, scientist, publicist and political figure
Date of Birth: 18.01.1811
Country: France

Content:
  1. Early Life and Education
  2. Academic Career
  3. Political Ideology
  4. Political Career
  5. Legacy

Early Life and Education

Édouard René Lefebvre de Laboulaye (1811-1883) was a French writer, scholar, lawyer, and politician. He was a brother to Charles Pierre Laboulaye and the father of Antoine Laboulaye.

Born in Paris, Laboulaye studied law and was admitted to the Paris bar in 1832. He pursued further studies in comparative jurisprudence and received his doctorate in 1849.

Academic Career

In 1849, Laboulaye was appointed professor of comparative law at the prestigious Collège de France. There, he gave a series of lectures on the history of the United States, which were later published as "Histoire politique des États-Unis" (1855-1856).

Laboulaye's academic work culminated in his famous political satire, "Paris en Amérique" (1863). This work, together with his "Histoire politique des États-Unis," provided a comprehensive overview of his political beliefs.

Political Ideology

Laboulaye was a staunch advocate for individual liberty and self-reliance. He believed that the role of the state should be limited to protecting personal, societal, and property security. He vehemently opposed any government intervention in economic affairs, regardless of its intended beneficiaries.

To prevent the tyranny of the majority, Laboulaye supported a bicameral parliament. He attributed the success of the United States to this system.

Political Career

In 1871, Laboulaye was elected to the National Assembly of France. In 1875, he became a life senator. During his time in politics, he continued to advocate for his political ideals.

Legacy

Laboulaye's writings and political activism had a profound impact on French society. His ideas contributed to the development of liberalism and republicanism in France. The city of Laboulaye in Argentina is named in his honor.

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