“Happy the people whose annals are tiresome.”
- January 18, 1689 – February 10, 1755
- French
- Political Philosopher, Jurist, Author of The Spirit of the Laws
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Quote
“Happy the people whose annals are tiresome.”
Explanation
Montesquieu suggests that a peaceful and stable society is one with a dull history—free from the turmoil of revolutions, wars, and political upheaval. If a nation’s historical record is “tiresome,” it likely means its people have enjoyed long periods of order, security, and prosperity, uninterrupted by dramatic crises or violence. Boredom, in this case, is a blessing.
This perspective contrasts with the romanticized view that greatness arises from dramatic events or heroic struggles. Montesquieu, a political thinker deeply concerned with the preservation of liberty and moderation, believed that true happiness in a nation lies not in glory, but in quiet stability. The less a country has to document in terms of bloodshed and catastrophe, the more fortunate its people likely are.
In the modern era, this quote remains relevant in reflecting on nations that enjoy long-standing democratic institutions, rule of law, and peaceful transitions of power. While such societies may seem uneventful or even dull compared to those with turbulent histories, it is precisely this predictability and calm that fosters individual freedom, economic growth, and civic health. Montesquieu reminds us that the best kind of history may be the one that never has to be rewritten in tragedy.
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