Annales. Économies, Sociétés, Civilisations - Année 1988 - Volume 43 - Numéro 2 - Pages 477-505The Great Urban Reorganisations of the 19th Century: Four Provincial Cities This study of the great reorganisations is related to an attempt to go beyond the traditional distinction between urban history and the history of spontaneous urban development. It examines how the interests, ideas and means of the actors from above and from below combine in the production of urban forms. The examination of urban reorganisation in Montpellier, Nantes, Rouen and Toulouse demonstrates the important role played by small proprietors when compared with that of the prefects, mayors, engineers, architects, etc. The interaction between ail of these elements led to the creation ofvvide boulevards which were less monolithic than is commonly thought. A close reading of these reorganisations allows us to see and understand the morphological subtleties which resulted from the introduction of these new urban forms into the former urban fabric. 29 pages Source : Persée ; Ministère de la jeunesse, de l’éducation nationale et de la recherche, Direction de l’enseignement supérieur, Sous-direction des bibliothèques et de la documentation.