The Paris Commune of 1871 is a pivotal moment in the history of France and the international labor movement. Although photography was in its infancy at that time, the revolutionary uprising in Paris was extensively documented. Images of the destroyed Paris were often used in the bourgeois press to underscore the alleged barbarity of the Commune. In turn, the portraits of the men and women of the Commune, many drawn in captivity, gave a face to the unknown Parisians.

This richly illustrated book, published on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Paris Commune, offers a unique look at the revolution through numerous photographs and documents. Compiled by Ronny Van de Velde, with an introduction by Xavier Canonne and a text by Theun Vonckx.