Assembly of Notables (feb 1, 1787 – may 31, 1787)

Description:

Proposed + convened by Calonne (accepted by Louis XVI)
in attempts to organise a body representing the people —> to seek endorsement for a
comprehensive reform program
Calonne did not want a situation where he proposes a tax & there to be a refusal to register an edict
—> the parlement might say no
To avoid Estates-General
(where representatives from all estates would meet and vote on issues regarding the governing
of France — has not met in over 100 years at this point)
The assembly:
Calonne hand picked —> most supportive, understanding, liberal nobles who have influence in the
parlement — to agree to his reforms
144 members
Feb 1787 —> first meeting:
Calonne presented a program —> offered them some voice in lawmaking in exchange for their
consent to the abolition of many traditional privileges (particularly the nobilityʼs immunity to taxes)
they expressed general agreement with some reform proposals —> idea of regional, representative
assemblies (demanded that this take the form of provincial Estates — thus would be dominated by
1st & 2nd estate)
sceptical of Calonneʼs grim assessment of economic situation (Compte rendu gave impression of
healthy finances 6 years ago)
sceptical of need for such radical reform
Some division — but ultimately refused reforms
Result:
Calonne dismissed
replaced with Brienne (one of Calonneʼs strongest critics in assembly of notables)

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