This book describes the three major historical events that created the Paris that you will see on your visit. These are meant for casual reading for the tourist not a scholarly study – ok!
The French Révolution, 1789-94, was birthed in Paris and is the most important revolution in history. One that has influenced all of the world’s political systems and continues to this day.
Baron Eugene von Haussmann was granted a carte blanche from Emperor Napoléon (not Bonaparte) to Renovate Paris into the greatest city in Europe. He began with a barnyard of a city and left it as the most beautiful city in the world.
The cityscape you will walk through on your visit is mainly a result of Haussmann’s design and the adherence to it of those who followed.
The Liberation of Paris in August 1944 was a pretty quiet affair as far as battles go. It was over in a day or two with few casualties given the number of people involved – mostly civilians.
However, Paris came within a few hours of been totally destroyed as the Nazi Füehrer Adolf Hitler order the destruction of all bridges, all museums including the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and all major churches.
Three brief stories as historical background to your visit.
