Paris in the 1870s was a bustling city that was undergoing immense changes. The decade saw some of the most significant events in French history, from the Franco-Prussian War to the establishment of the Third Republic. Let’s take a closer look at what was happening in Paris during this time.
The Franco-Prussian War
One of the defining events of the 1870s was undoubtedly the Franco-Prussian War. The war between France and Prussia began in July 1870 and lasted until May 1871.
It had severe consequences for Paris, as it was besieged by Prussian troops for several months. The citizens of Paris suffered greatly during this time, facing food shortages and disease.
The Siege of Paris
The Siege of Paris began on September 19, 1870, when the Prussian army surrounded the city. Over the next few months, they bombarded Paris with artillery fire and cut off its supply lines. As a result, many people were forced to eat rats and other animals to survive.
The siege ended on January 28, 1871, when Paris surrendered to the Prussians. This marked a significant moment in French history as it led to the downfall of Napoleon III’s Second Empire.
The Establishment of the Third Republic
Following Napoleon III’s downfall and the end of the war, France underwent a period of political upheaval that ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Third Republic. This new government had a profound impact on Parisian society, leading to reforms in education, public health, and workers’ rights.
Haussmannization
One of the most significant changes brought about by this new government was “Haussmannization.” Baron Haussmann was appointed by Napoleon III to modernize Paris and make it more functional and beautiful. His plans included the creation of wide boulevards, new parks and public spaces, and the renovation of old buildings.
- Haussmannization led to the destruction of many historic neighborhoods.
- However, it also created many new jobs and helped reduce unemployment in the city.
The Birth of Impressionism
The 1870s were also a time of great artistic innovation in Paris. This decade saw the birth of Impressionism, a movement that sought to capture fleeting moments and sensations through art.
The First Impressionist Exhibition
In 1874, a group of artists held the first Impressionist exhibition in Paris. The exhibition included works by Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and others. The paintings featured bold brushstrokes and bright colors that were quite different from traditional art styles.
The exhibition was not well-received by critics at the time but is now considered a groundbreaking moment in art history. It paved the way for other avant-garde movements like Cubism and Surrealism.
In conclusion, Paris in the 1870s was a city undergoing immense changes. From war and political upheaval to artistic innovation and urban renewal, this decade laid the foundation for modern-day Paris as we know it.