When did the War in the Vendée begin and end?
The War in the Vendée began in March 1793 with a massacre at Machecoul and lasted until 1796. This conflict claimed more than 240,000 lives including over 190,000 Vendeans and 50,000 republican soldiers.
Questions about Vendée
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who chose leaders for the rebellion against the Revolutionary government in France?
Peasants from the Vendée region chose leaders from their own local communities to fight back against the Revolutionary government. These community-selected leaders organized the resistance that erupted into open warfare starting in March 1793.
Why is the name Vendée derived from a river?
The name Vendée comes from the river that runs through the southeastern part of the department which historical records called Fluvium Vendre in the 10th century. Pierre-Henri Billy traces this origin to the Celtic word vindo meaning white or brilliant in a sacred context.
What economic activities define the modern Department of France known as Vendée?
Agriculture remains a significant source of employment here holding the second-highest level of revenue from farming among all French departments. Maize colza wheat and sunflowers grow as major arable crops while Challans produces poultry highly regarded nationwide.
Which political party holds the most seats on the Departmental Council today?
Thirty-one members elected through universal suffrage govern the affairs of the department with twenty-six seats belonging to right-wing parties. The Miscellaneous Right party currently holds 14 seats making it the largest group within the council.