ABSTRACT
It is a very old speculation, but not yet altogether unfruitful, why the great revolt of the end of the eighteenth century took place in Paris, and not even a pale copy of it in London. Britons flattered themselves then, and flatter themselves still, on their moderation; this is the favourite answer. “The riots which have taken place in many parts of England and Scotland on account of the high price of provisions”—so opens the Annual Register for 1801—“were neither so violent nor so obstinate as they would have been in countries where there is less moderation of character in the people and less confidence in means of constitutional relief.” The writer added that “every candid mind was less offended at the commotions of the populace than struck with their forbearance and patience.”
