Fernand Braudel (1902–85) was a French historian and a leading figure in the Annales School, known for his groundbreaking historical analysis. His work prioritized long-term social, economic, and geographical structures over event-based history, reshaping historiography.
Born in Luméville-en-Ornois, Lorraine, Braudel studied at the Sorbonne and later taught in Algeria and Brazil. His fascination with the Mediterranean inspired La Méditerranée et le monde méditerranéen à l’époque de Philippe II (1949; The Mediterranean and the Mediterranean World in the Age of Philip II,) introducing his concept of historical time, dividing history into short-term events, medium-term cycles, and long-term structures.
His second major work, Civilisation matérielle, économie et capitalisme, XVe-XVIIIe siècle (1979; Civilization and Capitalism, 15th–18th Century,) examined economic and social systems over centuries, emphasizing material culture’s role in shaping history. His final project, L’Identité de la France (1985; The Identity of France,) explored France’s historical development through geography and social structures.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Fernand Braudel
There are always some areas world history does not reach, zones of silence and undisturbed ignorance.
—Fernand Braudel
Topics: History
The earth is, like our own skin, fated to carry the scars of ancient wounds.
—Fernand Braudel
Topics: World
Happiness, whether in business or private life, leaves very little trace in history.
—Fernand Braudel
Topics: Happiness
Leadership of a world-economy is an experience of power which may blind the victor to the march of history.
—Fernand Braudel
Topics: Leadership
Leave a Reply