The Paris Commune: A Brief History

On March 18, 1871, Parisian women used their bodies to prevent French soldiers from seizing artillery from their working-class neighborhood, sparking the Paris Commune. The 72-day conflict ended with the bloody slaughter of Parisians and is considered a pivotal moment in modern history, inspiring revolutionary and radical social movements.

Format: Hardback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 18 March 2022
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

On the morning of March 18, 1871, a remarkable event unfolded in Paris, as Parisian women bravely stood between French soldiers and cannons, using their bodies as a formidable barrier to prevent the army from seizing the artillery located in their working-class neighborhood. When instructed to open fire, the troops, driven by a sense of moral conviction, refused to obey orders and instead turned their weapons against their leaders, initiating the Paris Commune. This revolutionary civil war, which rocked France and had far-reaching consequences, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of the nineteenth century and left an indelible mark on the twentieth.

Viewed by the left as a shining moment of hope and potential, the Commune represents a crucial chapter in understanding modern history and politics. Spanning a mere 72 days, this conflict ended in a tragic slaughter of Parisians, leaving a lasting impact on the city and its inhabitants. For some, the Commune signifies the final eruption of the long-lasting effects of the French Revolution, a moment of insurrection and resistance. For others, it stands as the first "successful" socialist uprising, offering a blueprint for egalitarian socio-economic, feminist, and political change.

The ideas and principles of the Commune have resonated with militants and revolutionaries across the globe, spanning the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Its impact can be seen in various insurrections and movements, as individuals and groups seek to emulate the Commune's goals and ideals. Countless scholars, drawn by the rich tapestry of the Commune, have delved into its various aspects, offering diverse perspectives and interpretations.

The Commune stands as a pivotal and transformative moment in nineteenth-century history, serving as a bridge between revolutionary pasts and futures. It provides a glimpse into alternate possibilities, challenging established hierarchs of class, religion, and gender and paving the way for subsequent centuries of revolutionary and radical social movements. The legacy of the Commune continues to inspire and influence people worldwide, reminding us of the power of collective action and the potential for meaningful change in the face of adversity.

Weight: 292g
Dimension: 148 x 222 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978827691