When did the phrase Trente Glorieuses first appear?
The phrase Trente Glorieuses first appeared in 1979 when French demographer Jean Fourastié published a book with that title. His work described the invisible revolution occurring from 1946 to 1975.
Questions about Trente Glorieuses
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What years define the period known as the Trente Glorieuses?
Historians define the period of unprecedented economic expansion from 1946 to 1975. This era began after Charles de Gaulle introduced dirigiste economic policies starting in 1944 and ended before the global conflicts resumed their normal growth rates between 1913 and 1950.
Who coined the name Trente Glorieuses and what inspired it?
French demographer Jean Fourastié coined the name in 1979 while publishing his book on the subject. The name borrowed heavily from Les Trois Glorieuses, a three-day uprising between July 27 and July 29 of 1830 that changed the French monarchy.
How much did real purchasing power increase for average French workers during the Trente Glorieuses?
Real purchasing power for average French workers increased by 170% between 1950 and 1975. Private consumption grew by 174% during the period from 1950 through 1974 according to historical records.
When did rationing end in France following World War II?
Rationing continued until 1947 or 1948 depending on the region and available supplies. Housing shortages became so severe they added another layer of hardship to daily life before infrastructure rebuilding began.