The Siege of Paris 1870 Starvation Balloons and the Birth of the Third Republic

In September 1870, the Prussian army encircled Paris, beginning a siege that would last over four months and redefine France. With the Emperor captured at Sedan and the Government of National Defense struggling to coordinate resistance, Parisians endured relentless bombardment, severe food shortages, and a brutal winter. This episode focuses on the extraordinary measures taken to communicate with the outside world: the use of hot air balloons and carrier pigeons, which became lifelines for a besieged city. Lucas and Luna explore the invention of the microfilm pigeon post, the tragic fate of the balloon Le Volta, and the political fallout that led to the proclamation of the Third Republic. They also discuss the role of Léon Gambetta, who escaped Paris by balloon to organize resistance in the provinces, and the eventual surrender that sparked the Paris Commune. Specific details include the 66 balloons launched, the 2.5 million microfilm dispatches carried by pigeons, and the daily rations that forced Parisians to eat horses, rats, and even zoo animals. This episode provides a vivid, granular look at one of the most dramatic chapters in French history, connecting military strategy, technological innovation, and the birth of modern France. #SiegeOfParis #FrancoPrussianWar #ThirdRepublic #LéonGambetta #BalloonPost #CarrierPigeons #Microfilm #Paris #1870 #Prussia #GovernmentOfNationalDefense #LeVolta #Sedan #Commune #HorseMeat #SiegeWarfare #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo