The University of Paris, also known as La Sorbonne, was one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Founded in the 12th century, it was a center of learning and scholarship for centuries.
However, in 1968, the University of Paris closed its doors, causing shockwaves throughout the academic world. But why did this happen?
The May 1968 Protests
The closure of the University of Paris was a direct result of the May 1968 protests in France. These protests were a series of student-led demonstrations and strikes that took place throughout France during May and June 1968. The protests were a response to various social and political issues, including high unemployment rates, low wages, and restrictive government policies.
The Role of Students
Students played a significant role in these protests. They demanded greater freedom of expression, more influence in decision-making processes within universities, and an end to what they saw as an outdated education system.
The Occupation of University Buildings
Students began occupying university buildings across France to protest against what they perceived as an unjust system. In Paris, students occupied the Sorbonne School of Arts and Humanities on May 3rd.
Police Response
Police cracked down on these protests with force. On May 10th, police stormed the Sorbonne campus and violently removed protesters from the premises. This event led to further clashes between students and police.
University Shutdown
The protests continued throughout May and June 1968. As tension grew between protesters and authorities, it became increasingly difficult for universities to function normally. The University of Paris was no exception.
The Decision to Close
On June 12th, French Prime Minister Georges Pompidou announced that all faculties at the University of Paris would be shut down indefinitely. This decision was made to restore order to the city and prevent further unrest.
Repercussions
The closure of the University of Paris had far-reaching consequences. Many students were forced to leave the country to continue their studies, while others were unable to complete their degrees. It took several years for the university system in France to recover from the events of 1968.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the closure of the University of Paris was a result of the May 1968 protests in France. While these protests were a response to various social and political issues, they highlighted deep-seated problems within the French education system. The events of 1968 had lasting effects on French society, and they continue to be studied by historians and scholars today.