Marie Antoinette was the last queen of France right before the first French Republic began. She died in October of 1793. She, in the western culture, is considered the pinnacle example of extravagance and profilgation. Her most famous quote is not even hers according to the majority of textbooks.
None of this is really new, and you can learn this and much more about her on Wikipedia.
‘The quote is taken to reflect either the princess’s frivolous disregard for the starving peasants or her poor understanding of their plight.’ Today it not be cake or brioche certainly. Those are too easily acquired in the local food depot in an increasing number of colors, tastes, and varieties. This is one of my new favorite examples in this regards.
Today, i think the phrase would be more; “Let them have Netflix”. Sorry, I don’t mean to pick on one particular streaming service. You can substitute Spotify, Disney+, or any of the others. They are all offering whatever form of entertainment your heart desires from dramas to sports spectaculars in the giant coliseums of our present day.
(That reference was purposeful. )