Reluctant Guards

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Reluctant Guards

Gardes Nationales who refuse to join the Communards are deprived of their weapons

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 4367300

© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10204373

1871 Communards Commune Deprived Gardes Guards Join Refuse Reluctant Nationales Weapons

EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a pivotal moment in the tumultuous history of France during the Paris Commune of 1871. The image depicts a group of Gardes Nationales, or National Guards, who had refused to join the ranks of the radical Communist government known as the Commune. The reluctant guards, dressed in their distinctive blue uniforms, are shown with their hands raised in surrender as they are being disarmed by their comrades. The Paris Commune, which lasted from March 18 to May 28, 1871, was a period of social and political upheaval in France following the Franco-Prussian War. The Communards, who were largely made up of working-class Parisians, sought to establish a more egalitarian society and to implement socialist policies. However, their rule was met with resistance from the French military and the Versailles government, leading to a bloody conflict. The reluctant guards in this photograph were likely among those who opposed the radical policies of the Commune and preferred to align themselves with the French government. By refusing to join the Communist cause, they put themselves at risk of being labeled traitors and faced the possibility of being targeted by their fellow guards. The scene depicted in this photograph is a poignant reminder of the complexities and contradictions of the Paris Commune. It highlights the deep divisions within French society at the time and the high stakes involved in the struggle for power. The image also serves as a testament to the sacrifices made by individuals during times of political upheaval and the importance of standing by one's convictions, even in the face of adversity.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.