Marie Antoinette’s name has long been associated with the phrase “Let them eat cake,” a statement supposedly made in response to hearing that the French peasants had no bread to eat. The quote has become symbolic of the disconnect between the ruling class and the struggles of the common people. But did the French queen actually utter these words? Let’s dive into the history and find out.
The Origins of the Quote
The phrase “Let them eat cake” (or more accurately, “Let them eat brioche”) first appeared in Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s autobiographical work, Confessions. It was written in 1767—years before Marie Antoinette even became queen.
Rousseau attributed the quote to “a great princess,” but he never specified who that princess was. Over time, however, the words became linked to Marie Antoinette, partly due to her reputation as being out of touch with the French people.
So, Was It Really Marie Antoinette?
Historians widely agree that Marie Antoinette likely never said “Let them eat cake.” By the time the phrase was associated with her, she had already become an unpopular figure in France. The quote was likely used as propaganda to paint her as indifferent to the suffering of the poor.