What role does health education play in popular education? Sociologist Olivier Douard examines the historical evolution of popular education since its emergence in the 19th century. Whether religious, secular, or labor-oriented, popular education has always emphasized the emancipation of the individual and the enhancement of their capacity for action—empowerment—concepts that are also central to health education. This did not prevent it from serving as a conduit for the public health policies implemented in France during the 20th century. With regard to health issues, popular education underwent a turning point in the 1980s, as the health of children and young people came to be viewed within a broader perspective of well-being.