Henri de Boulainvilliers

Henri de Boulainvilliers (1658–1722) was a French nobleman and political writer known for his ideas about the French aristocracy and its role in society. He argued that the nobility should have more power and influence over governance, opposing the centralizing efforts of the monarchy. Boulainvilliers' work emphasized the historical legitimacy of noble privileges and the distinct identity of the French nobility. His ideas contributed to discussions about class and power dynamics in France, particularly in the context of the changing political landscape leading up to the French Revolution.