Malesherbes, Loiret facts for kids
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Malesherbes was a commune in France. It was located in the Loiret department. On January 1, 2016, Malesherbes joined with other nearby communes to form a new, larger commune called Le Malesherbois.
What is Malesherbes?
Malesherbes was a town in the central part of France. It was known for its history and its connection to important French figures. The town was a local center for people living in the surrounding countryside.
Where is Malesherbes Located?
Malesherbes is situated in the northern part of the Loiret department. This area is in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. It's about 70 kilometers (43 miles) south of Paris. The town is near the Essonne River, which flows through the region.
How Big Was Malesherbes?
Before it became part of Le Malesherbois, the commune of Malesherbes covered an area of about 17.12 square kilometers (6.61 square miles). In 2013, it had a population of around 6,170 people. This made it a medium-sized town for its region.
History of Malesherbes
Malesherbes has a long history, with roots going back many centuries. It was once a small village that grew over time. The town's name itself has evolved from older forms.
Important Historical Figures
One of the most famous people connected to Malesherbes is Chrétien Guillaume de Lamoignon de Malesherbes. He was often called Malesherbes for short. He was a very important French statesman and lawyer in the 18th century.
Who Was Chrétien de Malesherbes?
Chrétien de Malesherbes was born in Paris in 1721. He came from a noble family. He held several important jobs in the French government. He was known for his fairness and his belief in justice.
Malesherbes and the Enlightenment
Chrétien de Malesherbes was a key figure during the Age of Enlightenment. This was a time when new ideas about freedom, reason, and human rights were very popular in Europe. He supported writers and thinkers who wanted to share new ideas, even if those ideas were sometimes controversial. He helped protect important works like the Encyclopédie, a famous book that collected knowledge from many different fields.
Malesherbes and the French Revolution
During the French Revolution, Chrétien de Malesherbes bravely defended King Louis XVI in his trial. This was a very dangerous thing to do at the time. Even though he was an old man, he stood up for what he believed was right. Sadly, he was later arrested and executed during the Reign of Terror in 1794. His courage and dedication to justice are still remembered today.
Life in Malesherbes
Life in Malesherbes was typical of a small French town. It had local shops, schools, and community activities. The town served as a hub for the surrounding rural areas.
Local Economy
The economy of Malesherbes was mainly based on local businesses and services. Agriculture was also important in the surrounding countryside. People worked in various jobs, supporting the community.
Community and Culture
Malesherbes had a community spirit, with local events and traditions. Like many French towns, it had a church and public spaces where people could gather. The town's history, especially its connection to Chrétien de Malesherbes, was a source of local pride.
Becoming Le Malesherbois
In 2016, Malesherbes merged with several other communes to form Le Malesherbois. This was done to create a larger, more efficient local government. The new commune includes the former towns of Cécil-les-Roses, Le Malesherbois, Mainvilliers, Nangeville, Orveau-Bellesauve, and Rouvres-Saint-Jean.
Why Do Communes Merge?
Communes sometimes merge to combine resources and improve public services. A larger commune can have more power to apply for government funding and manage projects. It can also help streamline administration and make local government more effective.
