Charles Alexandre de Calonne
Charles Alexandre de Calonne was a prominent figure during the late 18th century in France, particularly known for his role as Controller-General of Finances under King Louis XVI. Here are key points about his life and contributions:
Early Life and Career
Controller-General of Finances
- Calonne was appointed as Controller-General of Finances in 1783, a position he held until 1787.
- He inherited a national debt exacerbated by the costs of the American Revolutionary War.
- His most significant reform was the "Calonne Plan", which proposed:
- Land tax reform to ensure all land was taxed equally, regardless of ownership.
- Stamps, registration fees, and a new tax on tobacco.
- Abolition of some internal customs barriers to facilitate trade.
- His reforms aimed at centralizing fiscal policy and reducing tax evasion but were met with resistance from the nobility and the Parlement of Paris.
Downfall and Exile
- Calonne's inability to implement his reforms without the support of the Estates-General led to his downfall.
- In 1787, he was dismissed from his position and exiled to Lille before fleeing to England.
- From exile, he continued to critique the French Monarchy, advocating for reform, which further estranged him from the court.
Later Years and Legacy
- After the French Revolution began, Calonne returned to France but was never reinstated to any significant role.
- He spent his final years in London, where he died on October 30, 1802.
- Despite his failure, Calonne's ideas influenced future financial reforms in France, and his attempts at reform are often cited as a catalyst for the revolutionary events.
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