(1755–1793) Queen of
France during that country's most troubled years. She was a
pleasure-seeking woman who
squandered fortunes on luxuries. During her
reign unrest grew among the poor peasants and lower classes, and hunger became widespread. The Queen had little
understanding or
sympathy for the commoners. It is said that when she was told that the peasants had no
bread, she replied haughtily, "Then let them
eat cake!" She was beheaded at the
guillotine on 16 October 1793 after being found guilty of
treason.
—PDC Volume 4 Approved Glossary