Fernand Braudel

Date of Birth: August 24, 1902

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: November 27, 1985

Biography

Fernand Braudel was a renowned French historian and a prominent figure in the field of historiography. Born on August 24, 1902, in Luméville-en-Ornois, France, Braudel is best known for his work on the Mediterranean and his role in developing the Annales School of historical writing, which emphasizes long-term social history. He was a pivotal figure in moving away from traditional narratives focused on political events and great men, instead advocating for a broader approach that includes geography, economics, and social structures. Braudel’s magnum opus, “La Méditerranée et le Monde Méditerranéen à l’époque de Philippe II” (The Mediterranean and the Mediterranean World in the Age of Philip II), published in 1949, revolutionized the study of history by introducing the concept of the longue durée, a focus on long-term historical structures over events. His innovative methodologies and interdisciplinary approach have left a lasting impact on the field of history. Throughout his distinguished career, Braudel held several prestigious academic positions, including a professorship at the Collège de France and leadership of the École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales (EHESS). He passed away on November 27, 1985, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence historians worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Fernand Braudel

1. Fernand Braudel was a prisoner of war during World War II and wrote parts of his seminal work on the Mediterranean while in captivity.

2. He was a leading figure in the Annales School, alongside historians like Lucien Febvre and Marc Bloch.

3. Braudel’s concept of the longue durée has influenced various fields beyond history, including sociology and economics.

4. He was awarded the prestigious Balzan Prize in 1984 for his contributions to the field of history.

5. Braudel’s work has been translated into numerous languages, making his theories accessible to a global audience.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Fernand Braudel

1. “Events are the dust of history.”

2. “For the historian everything begins with geography.”

3. “History can be divided into three movements: what moves rapidly, what moves slowly, and what appears not to move at all.”

4. “Capitalism only triumphs when it becomes identified with the state, when it is the state.”

5. “The history of civilizations is, to a great extent, the history of cities.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Fernand Braudel’s highest net worth is not well-documented as he was primarily an academic and historian rather than a figure in business or entertainment. His contributions lie more in intellectual wealth and influence than in financial terms.