Nicolas Chamfort

Nicolas Chamfort was born in Clermont in 1741. After studying theology and receiving the title of abbé, he wrote plays that were successfully performed in Parisian theaters. He became a sought-after guest in Parisian salons and was supported by members of the Ancien Régime’s high nobility. During the French Revolution, he wrote political pamphlets and speeches. The phrase attributed to him, “War on the palaces, peace to the cottages,” became widely known. After being arrested and temporarily released, Chamfort attempted suicide and died in Paris in 1794 from the consequences.