An elegant café in 18th century Paris
In 1792 , in full French Revolution, they were counted only in Paris more than seven hundred coffees, all characterized by an incredible cultural vivacity.
In the immediately preceding period, these premises had been fundamental places for the exchange of ideas and opinions, and had contributed considerably to the immediately following political and social upheaval.
In a world still far from the use of modern means of communication such as radio and television, news could only circulate through print media and the consequent word of mouth among people; at a certain point intellectuals, students and politicians began to meet with increasing frequency within these public establishments, where, over a good cup of coffee or a glass of wine, they discussed animatedly about the reality that surrounded them.
Real circles often came to be formed , which over time turned into real political associations, the so-called "clubs" , similar to small parties, which would have assumed so much importance in the revolutionary period, in which politics was discussed, alliances were woven, plots were hatched and, in essence, they dreamed and tried to give the country a future different from the difficult present.
Parisian cafes were not only frequented by high-ranking and educated people, but also by people of low social class; even if only the former could afford to taste the more elaborate and expensive dishes such as soups and pates, while the latter had to be satisfied with the more frugal "Parisian soup" , or rather bread and water, the intent of both was the same:to change the face of France ( Photo from:caffe-espresso-italiano.com/caffe-francesi.