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In 1792 their decimal calendar replaced the 7-day week by…

“In 1792 their decimal calendar replaced the 7-day week by a 10-day week called a décade, each day of which was given a Latin numerical name, three of which comprised a month. The day was divided into ten hours, each consisting of 100 minutes, each minute of 100 seconds.” quote by Daniel J. Boorstin
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““In 1792 their decimal calendar replaced the 7-day week by a 10-day week called a décade, each day of which was given a Latin numerical name, three of which comprised a month. The day was divided into ten hours, each consisting of 100 minutes, each minute of 100 seconds.””

Daniel J. Boorstin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The French Revolutionary calendar attempted to rationalize time by using decimal divisions for weeks, days, and hours.

In simple terms: They tried to make time measurement purely decimal.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how cultural reforms can reshape daily life.

Themes

history science reform timekeeping culture

Mood

curious reflective

Type

historical analytical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • historical research
  • policy analysis
  • public understanding of science

Key Concepts

decimalization calendar reform metric system

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates societies to adopt new measurement systems?
  • How do people react to changes in everyday structures?
A Different Perspective

The system was unpopular and quickly abandoned, showing resistance to radical change.

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