The essay focuses on the meditated studies reviews representing a distinctive note of Angela Groppi as historian as well as the core of her methodical renewal in the History of French Revolution, in the history of family, work, welfare state, ageing and old age; both on a methodical and on an interpretative level. The analysis is intertwined with the memory of the personality, the professional and academic life of an original and severe historian, in the light of a long friendship, sharing of life and common initiatives.
Keywords: family history, work, welfare state, ageing, personal memories