1871

Key events from 1871

1871

  • The German Empire is proclaimed in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, unifying Germany under Prussian leadership and creating a new European power.
  • The Paris Commune establishes a revolutionary government for two months, inspiring socialist movements worldwide before brutal suppression.
  • The Great Chicago Fire destroys much of the city, killing hundreds and leaving 100,000 homeless while demonstrating urban vulnerability.

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