The Commune authorizes free recovery of low-value pawned goods

An appeal addressed peasants and agricultural labourers, arguing that Paris fought for a republic that would also reduce rural exploitation and inequality.

The executive commission issued rules implementing the ban on overnight bakery labour from 3 May. The measure answered a longstanding demand from bakery workers for healthier working hours.

The Commune created a commission to develop free, secular primary and vocational education. Women teachers and activists participated in efforts to expand girls’ education.

Gustave Paul Cluseret was removed after the loss of military positions and growing criticism of the Commune’s defence. Louis Rossel replaced him as delegate for war.

A majority of the Council created a five-member Committee of Public Safety with broad executive powers. A minority opposed the body as authoritarian and contrary to the Commune’s democratic...

After sustained bombardment and confused Communard command, government forces occupied Fort Issy. Its fall weakened the southwestern defence of Paris.

Louis Rossel resigned after criticizing the military organization of the Commune and the National Guard. Charles Delescluze assumed responsibility for the war effort the following day.

The peace treaty ending the Franco-Prussian War required France to cede Alsace and part of Lorraine and pay a large indemnity. The agreement helped the Versailles government concentrate military...

The Council called on other French cities to support communal liberty and the struggle against the Versailles government. By this point, most provincial communes had already been suppressed.

Members opposing the Committee of Public Safety announced that they would withdraw from council meetings and work in their districts. They objected to concentrating power in an executive committee.