Template:POTD/2010-09-18
The Illustrated London News's depiction of students preparing to defend the Siege of Paris, the final action in the Franco-Prussian War. The siege began on 18 September 1870, and ended four months later with the defeat of France and the proclamation of William I as emperor of the German Empire. Paris sustained more damage in the siege than in any other conflict. Dissatisfaction with the German government led to rebellion and the formation of the Paris Commune in 1871.Illustrator: Fred Barnard; Restoration: Adam Cuerden