The best part of historical research occurs when unexpected passions intersect. In today’s instance, it was peace-work and chocolate.
While following various threads in multiple search engines, I came upon these candy wrappers from the French company Guérin-Boutron. The elite chocolatier, established in Paris in 1775, achieved notoriety throughout Europe for their colorful labels. At the turn of the 19th century, they produced a collection featuring 84 “Benefactors of Humanity.” Along with familiar notables such as Pythagoras, Hippocrates, Isaac Newton, and Galileo, the company also paid homage to both Alfred Nobel and Bertha von Suttner for their contributions to the world.
As we enter the 2020s, it’s worth reflecting on which historical figures we might include on a similar series of collectible artwork. Likewise, we should identify and support those who might lead the world toward greater wisdom and harmony in the years ahead.
Peace at Last 