Communard

French politics

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June 11, 2026

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The term "Communard" refers to a supporter or participant in the Commune of Paris in 1871. This was an insurrection in Paris against the French government following France's defeat in the Franco-German War.12

The Commune was established by revolutionaries on March 26, 1871, after an attempt by the government to disarm the National Guard sparked resistance. The Commune's program included measures reminiscent of the French Revolution, such as ending support for religion, and some social reforms like a 10-hour workday.2

The French government, led by Adolphe Thiers, eventually crushed the Commune during "Bloody Week" (May 21–28, 1871), resulting in approximately 20,000 deaths among the Communards. Many Communards also called themselves "Federates," believing in a federal system for France.23

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Federate
Many Communards called themselves Federates because they believed in a federal system for France.
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Many Communards called themselves Federates because they believed in a federal system for France.
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France
The Commune of Paris
…“Bloody Week” (May 21–28), the Communards resisted, street by street, but were pushed back steadily to the heart of Paris. In their desperation, they executed a number of hostages (including the archbishop of Paris) and in the last days set fire to many public buildings, including the Tuileries Palace and…
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…“Bloody Week” (May 21–28), the Communards resisted, street by street, but were pushed back steadily to the heart of Paris. In their desperation, they executed a number of hostages (including the archbishop of Paris) and in the last days set fire to many public buildings, including the Tuileries Palace and…
Read More