Paris under the Commune The Seventy-Three Days of the Second Siege; with Numerous Illustrations, Sketches Taken on the Spot, and Portraits (from the Original Photographs)   By: John Leighton

Paris under the Commune: A Riveting Account of a City in Chaos

John Leighton takes readers on a gripping journey back to a tumultuous period in French history with his book, "Paris under the Commune: The Seventy-Three Days of the Second Siege." Through detailed research, numerous illustrations, sketches, and captivating portraits, Leighton paints a vivid picture of the chaotic and transformative events that unfolded during the Paris Commune.

Leighton's writing style offers a balanced blend of historical facts and personal narratives, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the heart of the action. From the first pages, his meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive research are evident, making this book an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the Paris Commune and its aftermath.

One of the outstanding features of this book is the inclusion of numerous illustrations and sketches, which were taken on the spot. These visual aids breathe life into Leighton's descriptions, enabling readers to envision the devastation and resilience that characterized the city during the seventy-three days of the second siege. The author's decision to include portraits, sourced from original photographs, adds another layer of authenticity to this remarkable historical account.

Leighton's narrative captures the spirit of the Parisian people, as he explores the social, political, and economic dynamics that led to the rise of the Commune and the subsequent siege. The author masterfully weaves together the stories of everyday citizens, military personnel, and political figures, providing a multifaceted perspective on the events that shaped the fate of the city.

Furthermore, Leighton's book delves into the aftermath of the Commune with equal scrutiny, shedding light on the long-lasting impacts it had on Parisian society. By examining the political trials, social upheaval, and the city's gradual return to stability, he presents a comprehensive view of the Commune's legacy.

While the book primarily focuses on the historical aspects, it is worth mentioning that Leighton's writing is remarkably engaging, and he successfully humanizes the events of the Commune. Through personal accounts and anecdotes, he brings forth the emotions and struggles of the Parisian people, immersing readers in their hopes, fears, and resilience.

If there is one aspect that readers might find lacking, it is a deeper exploration of the ideological motivations behind the rise of the Commune. While the book touches upon this subject, dedicating more attention to the ideological underpinnings would have enriched the narrative further.

Regardless of this minor criticism, "Paris under the Commune" remains an exceptional work of historical non-fiction. John Leighton’s meticulous research, evocative illustrations, and engaging storytelling combine to create a compelling account of a city under siege. This book will undoubtedly fascinate any reader interested in French history, the Commune, or the indomitable spirit of the Parisian people during times of great upheaval.

First Page:

Socialism, or the Red Republic, is all one; for it would tear down the tricolour and set up the red flag. It would make penny pieces out of the Column Vendôme. It would knock down the statue of Napoleon and raise up that of Marat in its stead. It would suppress the Académie, the École Polytechnique, and the Legion of Honour. To the grand device Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, it would add "Ou la mort." It would bring about a general bankruptcy. It would ruin the rich without enriching the poor. It would destroy labour, which gives to each one his bread. It would abolish property and family. It would march about with the heads of the proscribed on pikes, fill the prisons with the suspected, and empty them by massacres. It would convert France into the country of gloom. It would strangle liberty, stifle the arts, silence thought, and deny God. It would bring into action these two fatal machines, one of which never works without the other the assignat press and the guillotine... Continue reading book >>