24601

24601 is a prison identification number that holds significant cultural relevance due to its association with the character Jean Valjean in Victor Hugo's 1862 novel *Les Misérables*. Upon his release after nineteen years of imprisonment for stealing a loaf of bread, Valjean is given this number. It becomes a symbol of his past and the oppressive system of justice he endured.

Throughout the novel, the number 24601 is repeatedly referenced by Inspector Javert, a relentless antagonist who views Valjean solely as a number and a criminal. Javert's obsession with recapturing Valjean stems from his unwavering belief in the law and the indelible mark of his prison number. This stark contrast between Valjean's desire for redemption and Javert's rigid adherence to the number 24601 highlights the novel's exploration of themes like justice, mercy, and social inequality.

The number 24601 has transcended its literary origin and become a widely recognized symbol. It is often invoked in popular culture and political discourse to represent the dehumanizing effects of incarceration, the struggle against oppression, or the indelible nature of one's past. Its enduring presence in collective consciousness is a testament to the powerful narrative and enduring themes of *Les Misérables*.