A Social and Career Analysis of the French Army Officer Corps, 1750-1800

FAIN: RO-10639-70

Regents of the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1015)
David Bien (Project Director: July 1970 to present)

Analysis of relationship of behavior of French army officers before and during French Revolution to their social and geographic origins, ages, career patterns, wealth, military experiences and related shifting mental attitudes. ABSTRACT: Continuation of H69-0-164, computer-aided analysis of relationship of behavior of French army officers before and during French Revolution to their social and geographic origins, ages, career patterns, wealth, military experiences and related shifting mental attitudes. Geneological records at Bibliotheque Nationale, Archive Nationale and military career documentation at Ministry of War archives to provide data for computer analysis. Preliminary research suggest that during this period there were parallel movements in army for liberal institutional reform as well as reactionary moves toward limiting social mobility by forming professional military caste system. Intra-aristocratic conflict over these issues emerged in decades preceding Revolution. Quantitative statistical study of individual in army and variation in performance and behavior according to background and career experience will provide base for analysis of social change within aristocracy and intellectual change associated with Enlightenment. Research planning under H69-0-164 led to decision to examine all officers of whole regiment, rather than random sample. Present project to assemble and consolidate data for computer analysis by 1972. Will develop method for analyzing careers. May also revise traditional views about origins of Revolution. Funds for PI, research assistants' summer salaries.