Meaning: The quote by James Meade, an economist, provides a glimpse into a tumultuous period in European history during World War II. In this quote, Meade describes the harrowing experience of leaving Geneva with his family in the midst of the war, as they became part of the disordered refugee crowds fleeing across France from the German army.

The outbreak of World War II in 1939 had a profound impact on the lives of millions of people across Europe. As the German army advanced through various countries, civilians were forced to flee their homes in search of safety and refuge. Meade's account of leaving Geneva with his three young children underscores the urgency and chaos of the situation faced by countless families during this turbulent time.

The mention of the children being aged 4 years, 2 years, and just 2 weeks old is particularly poignant, as it highlights the vulnerability of the fleeing refugees, especially the very young and the newborn. The challenges and hardships faced by families with young children during wartime displacement are often overlooked, and Meade's personal account serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict.

The phrase "disordered refugee crowds" evokes the image of chaos and confusion that characterized the mass exodus of people fleeing the advancing German army. The logistical and emotional challenges of navigating through such disordered crowds while ensuring the safety of young children would have been daunting for Meade and his family, as well as for many others in similar circumstances.

Meade's experience as a refugee during this period likely shaped his understanding of the economic and social impacts of war and displacement. As an economist, he may have been acutely aware of the far-reaching consequences of such upheavals on individuals, families, and entire societies. His personal account of fleeing across France provides a human perspective on the broader historical and economic implications of wartime displacement.

It is important to consider the broader historical context in which Meade's experience occurred. The fall of France to the German army in 1940 led to a massive wave of refugees seeking to escape the advancing forces. The displacement and upheaval caused by the war had profound and long-lasting effects on European societies, shaping post-war reconstruction and the establishment of international organizations aimed at preventing such devastation in the future.

In conclusion, James Meade's quote offers a poignant glimpse into the personal experience of fleeing as a refugee during World War II. His account sheds light on the hardships faced by families with young children and underscores the broader impact of war and displacement on individuals and societies. By sharing his story, Meade provides a humanizing perspective on the immense challenges and resilience of those who endured the ravages of war.