Journal des débats facts for kids

Journal des Débats - Portrait of monsieur Bertin, director, by Ingres

The Journal des débats was a very important French newspaper. Its name means "Journal of Debates" in French. It was published for a very long time, from 1789 to 1944. During its history, its name changed several times.

This newspaper started just after a big meeting in France called the Estates-General of 1789. When the French Revolution began, the Journal des débats became super important. It accurately recorded everything that was said in the National Assembly. Back then, it was called Journal des Débats et des Décrets. This means "Journal of Debates and Decrees."

For almost 40 years, Bertin l'Aîné was in charge of the newspaper. His family, the Bertin family, owned it for a long time. During the time of the First French Empire, the newspaper didn't agree with Napoleon. Because of this, Napoleon made them change its name to Journal de l'Empire.

What Was the Journal des Débats?

The Journal des débats was a newspaper that played a big role in French history. It started as a weekly paper, meaning it came out once a week. Over time, it became a daily newspaper. It reported on important events and discussions.

A Newspaper Through History

The newspaper changed its name and its views as France changed.

During the Bourbon Restoration

When the Bourbon kings returned to power (1813–1814), the newspaper changed its name again. It became the Journal des Débats Politiques et Littéraires. This means "Journal of Political and Literary Debates." It supported a conservative viewpoint, but not an extreme one.

Under King Charles X

Later, under King Charles X (1827–1829), the newspaper changed its stance. It started to support the liberal side. This side was led by thinkers like Guizot and Royer-Collard. They were called the Doctrinaires.

Popularity and Influence

The Journal des débats was the most-read newspaper during the Restoration. It was also very popular during the July Monarchy. Later, other newspapers like La Presse and Le Petit Journal became more popular.

Many famous writers and thinkers wrote for the Journal des débats. This made the newspaper very influential. It helped shape French culture and French literature in the first half of the 19th century.

During World War II

The newspaper continued to be published during World War II. This was even when France was under German occupation. Because of this, it was shut down after the Liberation of Paris in 1944.

Famous People Who Wrote for the Journal

Many important writers and thinkers contributed to the Journal des débats. Their articles helped make the newspaper famous. Here are some of them: