Adolphe Thiers, First President of the Third Republic

Born Louis Adolphe Thiers on April 15, 1797, in Marseille to a modest family. His father was a locksmith who had seen better days. Young Adolphe would escape provincial obscurity through education and ambition.

Began studying law at Aix-en-Provence, where he befriended the future historian François Mignet. Together they would make their mark in Paris as liberal journalists and historians.

Arrived in Paris to pursue journalism and politics. His small stature (barely five feet) and provincial accent marked him as an outsider, but his intelligence and ambition would overcome all obstacles.

Began publishing his monumental 'History of the French Revolution,' which brought him fame and fortune. The ten-volume work established him as France's leading historian and opened doors to political circles.

Played a key role in the July Revolution that overthrew Charles X. Helped draft the proclamation offering the throne to Louis-Philippe. His reward was entry into the inner circles of power.

Entered the cabinet as Minister of the Interior under the July Monarchy. At thirty-five, the provincial locksmith's son was governing France. His energy and competence were undeniable.

Became Prime Minister for the first time at age thirty-nine. His ministry was brief but established him as a major political figure. He would return to power twice more.

Second term as Prime Minister during the Eastern Crisis. His aggressive foreign policy nearly led to war with Britain. Louis-Philippe dismissed him, beginning years of opposition.

Began his massive 'History of the Consulate and Empire,' a twenty-volume study of Napoleon. The work consumed decades and cemented his reputation as France's greatest living historian.

Witnessed the February Revolution that overthrew Louis-Philippe. Initially supported the Republic, then backed Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte, whom he dismissed as a 'cretin' he could control. He was wrong.

Briefly exiled after Napoleon III's coup d'état. The man he had helped to power now imprisoned him. Thiers spent months abroad before being allowed to return, chastened but unbroken.

Returned to active politics as a deputy, becoming the leading voice of liberal opposition to Napoleon III. His speeches against the Mexican adventure and Prussian threat proved prophetic.

Traveled across Europe desperately seeking allies as France collapsed before Prussia. His warnings about Prussian power had been ignored. Now he could only try to salvage what remained.

Elected Chief of the Executive Power by the National Assembly meeting in Bordeaux. At seventy-four, the historian became the leader of a defeated, occupied nation. His task: make peace and restore order.

Ordered the military suppression of the Paris Commune during 'Bloody Week' (May 21-28, 1871). Government forces killed an estimated 20,000-30,000 Communards. Thiers defended the action as necessary for civilization.

Became the first President of the Third Republic in August 1871. His task was to pay the indemnity, remove German troops, and establish a stable government. He accomplished the first two brilliantly.

Forced to resign as President when monarchist deputies withdrew support. His declaration that 'the Republic will be conservative or it will not be' failed to satisfy those who wanted no Republic at all.

Died on September 3, 1877, still active in politics to the end. His funeral was a national event. The historian of revolution had become history himself, his legacy forever linked to the Commune's blood.