Calonne

Calonne, Charles Alexandre de, statesman, was born in 1734 at Douai. Studying at Paris, and applying himself to the practice of the law, he in 1783 succeeded Maurepas as controller-general of the treasury. By his reckless administration, which was designed to secure the favour of the courtiers and men of power, he was obliged to increase the burdens of taxation upon the people. This led to a crisis, and in 1786 he advised the king to summon the Assembly of the Notables. The Assembly met in the following year, and Calonne's financial statement was such that he was deprived of office. He retired to England until 1802, when Bonaparte gave him permission to return to France. Here at Paris he died in the same year.