Jean-Lambert Tallien and his Political Path

Abstract

Jean-Lamber Tallien (1767–1820) was a controversial figure of the era of the French Revolution, who rose from the lower classes, quickly made a successful political career, and just as quickly lost it. He encountered the Revolution at the age of twenty-two and became enthusiastically involved in the unfolding events, perfectly navigating the ever-changing environment. Tallien Tallien joined the Jacobin Club, organised a society for political education, began publishing his own newspaper, and was soon elected to the National Convention, becoming one of the youngest deputies in the new legislature. This was followed by a succession of assignments as a representative on mission to different regions of France, an escalation of the conflict with Robespierre, and the Thermidorian Reaction, which was truly Tallien's finest hour. However, after the overthrow of Robespierre, his career suffered a serious setback. Some facts of his biography, such as his participation in the September Massacres, his too soft policy in rebellious Bordeaux, his relationship with the Spanish Thérésa Cabarrus, gave his political opponents, and later historians, reason to accuse Tallien of bloodthirstiness, corruption, and royalism, which led to the permanent loss of his influence and credibility. His last attempt to reverse his fortunes was Bonaparte's Egyptian expedition, which, however, ended miserably not only for Tallien, but also for the great majority of its participants. The author highlights the main milestones of Tallien's biography, as well as summarises the reasons for and the essence of the “black legend” about him that has developed in historiography.