Étienne Marcel

Étienne Marcel was a prominent leader and merchant in 14th-century Paris who became a symbol of the city’s desire for greater political independence. Around 1358, during a period of social unrest following the Black Death and war, he led a revolt against the royal authority of King John II, advocating for more power for the city’s citizens and merchants. His leadership aimed to challenge the king's influence but ultimately failed; he was killed in a coup. Étienne Marcel remains recognized for his role in early struggles for municipal autonomy and the rights of common citizens in medieval France.