Joseph Fouché, duc d’Otrante (1759–1820,) was a French statesman, revolutionary, and Minister of Police, known for his political maneuvering and intelligence operations during the French Revolution and Napoleonic era.
Born in Le Pellerin, France, Fouché was educated by the Oratorians, initially training as a teacher before turning to revolutionary politics. Elected to the National Convention (1792,) he aligned with the Montagnards and voted to execute King Louis XVI. He later helped suppress counter-revolutionary uprisings, particularly in Lyon, earning a ruthless reputation.
Under Napoleon, Fouché served as Minister of Police (1799–1810, 1815,) overseeing surveillance, censorship, and intelligence gathering. His ability to navigate shifting political landscapes allowed him to serve multiple regimes, including the Bourbon Restoration.
His most notable publication, Memoirs of Joseph Fouché, Duke of Otranto (1825,) offers insights into his political strategies and interactions with Napoleon. Though originally attributed to Fouché, the memoirs were later credited to Alphonse de Beauchamp, based on Fouché’s notes.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Joseph Fouche
It is worse than a crime: it is a mistake.
—Joseph Fouche
Topics: Mistakes
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