The Most Scandalous Murder Trial Of 19th Century France

In 1817, prosecutor Antoine Bernardin Fualdès was found dead, floating in the Aveyron river, Rodez, France. The incident sparked widespread rumors and allegations of political conspiracy during the tense Bonapartist and Royalist conflict of the time. The trial became one of the first media-driven events in Europe, attracting attention from famous writers like Victor Hugo. Public fascination grew with sensational accusations, such as a butcher’s knife being used to kill the prosecutor. Despite multiple trials and convictions, retractions by witnesses cast doubt on the verdicts. Many believed the trials were manipulated for political reasons, leaving the true motive and perpetrator of the crime a mystery. From the ancient civilizations of years past to the dawn of the Space Race, every week we’ll be bringing you award-winning documentaries featuring some of the world’s best historians. Subscribe so you don’t miss out. Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free exclusive podcast