What Was the Commune Established in Paris in 1871?

By Robert Palmer

The Commune established in Paris in 1871 was a significant event in French history. It was a revolutionary government that emerged after the fall of Napoleon III’s Second Empire. This article will delve into the details of what the Commune was, its goals, and its impact on both Paris and France as a whole.

What was the Commune?

The Commune, also known as the Paris Commune, was a radical political and social movement that lasted from March 18 to May 28, 1871. It emerged in response to the defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War and the collapse of the Second Empire.

The Commune aimed to establish a democratic government that represented the interests of the working class. It sought to address socio-economic inequalities and improve living conditions for workers. The movement gained support mainly from artisans, workers, and radical intellectuals.

Goals of the Commune

The Commune had several key goals:

  • Social Equality: The Commune aimed to dismantle class hierarchies and create a society based on equality. It advocated for fair wages, improved working conditions, and better social welfare programs.
  • Political Reform: The movement sought to establish direct democracy with universal suffrage.

    It envisioned a system where all citizens had an equal say in decision-making processes.

  • Secularism: The Commune aimed to separate church and state completely. It believed that religion should have no influence over political matters.
  • Cultural Revival: The movement supported artistic freedom and cultural activities as a means of expressing progressive ideas.

The Impact of the Commune

The Commune had a profound impact on both Paris and French society. While the Commune was eventually crushed by the French government, its legacy lived on:

  • Social Reforms: The Commune’s demands for improved working conditions and social welfare programs laid the foundation for later labor movements and social reforms.
  • Political Influence: The ideas of direct democracy and universal suffrage championed by the Commune influenced future political movements in France.
  • Cultural Significance: The Commune inspired artists, writers, and intellectuals to create works that challenged traditional norms and advocated for progressive ideas.
  • Martyrs of the Commune: The violence that accompanied the suppression of the Commune led to a sense of martyrdom among its supporters. This further fueled radical sentiments in France.

In Conclusion

The Commune established in Paris in 1871 was a revolutionary movement that sought to bring about social and political change. Although short-lived, it left a lasting impact on French society, influencing future political movements, labor reforms, and artistic expressions. The Paris Commune stands as a significant event in history that continues to be studied and remembered today.