The French Republican Calendar: An Experiment in Revolutionary Timekeeping
Origins and Purpose
The French Republican calendar, also known as the French Revolutionary calendar, was an innovative dating system adopted during the French Revolution in 1793. It was designed to replace the Gregorian calendar, which was associated with the monarchy and the Catholic Church.
Naming Conventions
The calendar featured unique and nature-inspired names for its months. Each month was named after a natural element, such as "Pluviôse" (rainy) or "Thermidor" (heat). Days were named after seeds, trees, flowers, and fruits.
Structure and Features
The Republican calendar consisted of 12 months, each with 30 days. The year was divided into four equal quarters of 90 days each. Five extra days, called "sans-culottides," were added at the end of the year. These days were named after important events in the Revolution.
Elimination of Religious Holidays
The calendar was strictly secular. It removed all references to Christian holidays and saints' days. Instead, it celebrated revolutionary events and figures, such as the fall of the Bastille and the execution of King Louis XVI.
Reception and Impact
The Republican calendar faced significant resistance from the French people. It was often seen as a radical departure from tradition and was unpopular with those who clung to Catholic beliefs.
Abolition and Return to Gregorian Calendar
In 1806, Napoleon Bonaparte abolished the Republican calendar and reinstated the Gregorian calendar. However, the Republican calendar continues to fascinate historians and scholars as a unique symbol of the French Revolution and its attempts to reshape society and time itself.
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