Abstract EN:

The subject of this thesis is the study of a small protestant community, of a medium town by the Loire river shores, from the end of the 16th century to the beginning of the 18th century. The main features of the "blésois" protestantism reveal a medium to high social standing, the watch-maker master r the goldsmithbeing the type most widesread (these two activities history hold an important place in this work. ) this community demography, as it is a minority, brings a marked decline to the fore throughout this period, the causes are more economical than religious. An intense intellectual activity, especially in the teaching of french to foreigners, also characterizes this group. The living surrounding in the town and in the fields, confirms a certain affluence and a high intellectual level. The relationships, in the midst of the family, is indissociable from the occupational activities. The latter highlight processes of social evolution of which family ties are the key. The important migratory froods throughout this period are the origin of a genuine diaspora, where the "petit Blois" from Paris and London hold an important place. The insertion of some people in the world of finance, then in the protestant bank, is also an outstanding feature. The impact of revocation in the town was brought back to its just proportions. Finally, an approach of the refuge and of the new converts completes this research from which are appended biographical notes.