Industrie hippique, immigration anglaise et structures sociales à Chantilly au XIXe siècle

The horse business, English immigration and social structures in Chantilly in the XIXth century Jean-Pierre BLAY During the « Monarchie de Juillet », at a time when English culture was highly estimated by sportsmen in the entourage of the Duke of Orléans, the influence of aristocratic circles was felt in the world of racing. Investments made by upper middle class businessmen in the racing stables at Chantilly facilitated the development of a real horse business. Having once been exclusive to English sportsmen, horse racing became apopular entertainment on a national scale and, at the same time as stimulating the town's growth, earned a fortune for English trainers settled in Chantilly. This phenomenon was at the very root of diversification in urban activities and brought about the overall enrichment of the population in the midst of which an English middle class emerged from the world of horse-racing alongside the traditional, local bourgeoisie.