Bourgeois Politics in France, 19451951 [Paperback]

This 1995 book is a pioneering study of the defence of French bourgeois interests and the nature of French conservatism.This 1995 book is a pioneering study of the defence of French bourgeois interests and the nature of French conservatism. Vinen presents French conservatism as a more subtle and dynamic force than has been previously appreciated, and outlines the new kinds of political synthesis inspired by Vichy, occupation and the purges.This 1995 book is a pioneering study of the defence of French bourgeois interests and the nature of French conservatism. Vinen presents French conservatism as a more subtle and dynamic force than has been previously appreciated, and outlines the new kinds of political synthesis inspired by Vichy, occupation and the purges.This is the first general study based on primary research of the reconstruction of conservative parties, business associates, civil service departments and other institutions defending bourgeois interests in the period between 1945 and 1951. French conservatism is presented as a more subtle, dynamic force than has been previously appreciated. It is suggested that the experiences of Vichy, the occupation and the purges inspired new kinds of political synthesis, making conservatives more dynamic and receptive to change than their progressive opponents.1. Introduction; 2. Historiographic overview; 3. International comparisons; 4. Notables; 5. Bourgeois parties and the female electorate; 6. Organized business and politics; 7. Administration; 8. Opposition nationale; 9. The Parti Republicain de la Libert?; 10. Machine ? ramasser les P?tainistes?; 11. The Rassemblement des Gauches R?publicaines; 12. The Rassemblement du Peuple Fran?ais; 13. Independents and Peasants; 14. The Groupement de D?fense des Contribuables; 15. Conclusion. Richard Vinen, a lecturer in history at King's College in London, has provided a convincing analysis of the complex bourgeois alliances in the Fourth Republic. His book faces squarely hl“â