[Bon Louis Henri]. French historian, born in St. Quentin on the 20th of February 1810. He wrote dramas and historical novels for a while, but about 1830 devoted himself to the writing of history, joining Paul Lacroix, “Bibliophile Jacob,” in his project for a history of France in forty-eight volumes, consisting of extracts from historians and chronicles from the earliest period to 1830. He published the first volume in 1833, and thenceforward toiled alone at the vast undertaking, which was completed on a smaller scale in 1836. He then set himself to a still greater task, his Histoire de France. A third and much improved edition, containing a copious statement of the history and origin of the ancient Gauls, the development of the French language and literature, and the aspects of medieval life and manners, earned the Gobert prize; the fourth edition was awarded by the Institution in 1869 the great prize of 20,000 francs. This work comes down only to 1789, yet it is one of the best works dealing in detail with the history of France. It shows impartiality and insight, is excellently arranged and admirably written. The continuation to the author’s own time formed the less admirable Histoire de France Moderne. Martin acted for a time as mayor of one of the arrondissements of Paris, and was chosen Deputy for Aisne in 1871, and Senator in 1876. He was elected a member of the French Academy in 1878. He wrote several minor histories, such as the Histoire de Soissons; Daniel Manin; Jeanne d’Arc; L’Unité Italienne; and La Russie d’Europe. He died in Paris on the 14th of December 1883.
