Fatio, Pierre

Born 1662; died Sept. 6, 1707, in Geneva. Leader of a revolt of the townspeople of Geneva against the city’s patriciate in May 1707.

Fatio, a lawyer, and his supporters among the middle and petite bourgeoisie demanded a greater role for tradesmen and craftsmen in the city’s elective organs of authority. They also demanded an end to the arbitrary power of the city’s elite in imposing taxes, administering justice, and other functions. Fatio’s demands were supported by peasants in the surrounding countryside. Street fighting ensued in Geneva. The city authorities summoned troops from the allied cantons of Bern and Zurich to suppress the disturbances. Fatio was arrested and shot.