fmd_1028172 - Essai au module de 10 centimes, pigeons voyageurs, Siège de Paris n.d. Paris Fl.862

GOUVERNEMENT DE LA DÉFENSE NATIONALE

(4/09/1870-13/02/1871)

The Republic was proclaimed on September 4, 1870 with the forfeiture of Napoleon III and his dynasty. A National Defense government is set up, chaired by General Trochu, Governor of Paris and made up of moderate Republicans. The war continues and intensifies while the government takes refuge in Paris besieged by the Prussians. A delegation withdrew to Tours. Gambetta joined it in a balloon on October 2, 1870. But this resistance remained in vain and extended the misery, notably provoking popular movements in Paris in October. In January 1871, the National Defense government had to accept Bismarck's conditions. Paris capitulates, a National Assembly is elected to ratify the peace treaty, the armistice is signed. Elections were held on February 8 and brought to power a majority of conservative notables who met for the first time in Bordeaux on February 13, 1871. The government of National Defense then gave him his powers..