French statesman, one of the leading figures of the French Revolution. A Parisian lawyer, he became a leader of the Cordeliers early in the Revolution and gained popular favor through his powerful oratory. A member of the Commune of Paris, he helped set the stage for the August 1792, attack on the Tuileries and the overthrow of the monarchy. In the new republic, he became minister of justice and virtual head of the Provisional Executive Council. On March 30, 1794, Danton and his followers were charged with conspiracy to overthrow the government. The trial was a mockery, and Danton was guillotined. LS in French, signed “Danton,” one page, 8 x 10, September 8, 1792. Letter to Dr. Laubry, a doctor with the University of Paris. In full, “My dear colleague, sent us a memorandum in which he asks for a doctor’s position in one of our armies, even as a deputy, in case you have already appointed a head doctor. To be useful to the nation, he is leaving behind the situation he has enjoyed for the past 13 years in the capital. Such devotion, my dear colleague, will no doubt appear to you worthy of some consideration.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered light toning and foxing, previous folds and a few small spots of ink erosion to text, not affecting the legibility of the boldly-penned letter. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
