“Paris outraged Paris broken Paris martyred But Paris liberated.” These words echo through time. They remind us of the city’s resilience. We stand before the Memorial to the 20 January 1918 Bombardment of Paris and the Liberation of Paris, 15 August 1944 Plaque. It is a silent witness to two pivotal moments in Parisian history.
This memorial marks two distinct yet connected events. The first is the bombardment of Paris in 1918. The second is the city’s liberation in 1944. Both events tested the spirit of Paris.
The 20 January 1918 Bombardment saw Paris under attack from German forces. They used the Paris Gun specifically to bomb Paris. This long-range canon was a weapon of terror. Shells rained down causing death and destruction. On one occasion in March 1918 a shell exploded on Saint Gervais church killing 88 people. The city was sent into a hazy state. By the end of that day shelling killed 16 people and wounded 29 more. Bombardments continued between March and August 1918. The German’s Paris Gun caused around 260 Parisian casualties. Citizens learned to avoid large gatherings during shelling periods. This lowered casualties. It also made the Paris Gun seem less terrifying over time.
Fast forward to August 1944. Paris was under Nazi occupation since 1940. The liberation of Paris began with an uprising by the French Resistance. The French Forces of the Interior staged this uprising. It was against the German garrison. The Allies were advancing. On August 15th tensions heightened in Paris. Local police and Metro workers went on strike. Thousands joined them resulting in a general strike on August 18th. The next day the armed forces of the French Resistance revolted.
Barricades appeared all over the city. Days of bloody street fighting followed. Nearly 2000 Resistance fighters and civilians died. Thousands more were wounded. On August 24th the French 2nd Armoured Division entered Paris. The US 4th Infantry Division also entered. On August 25th General von Choltitz surrendered the city. After four years Paris was finally free.
Commemorative plaques throughout Paris mark where Resistance fighters died. Gunshot holes remain in buildings as reminders. On August 25th 1944 General Charles de Gaulle declared Paris liberated.
The Memorial to the 20 January 1918 Bombardment of Paris and the Liberation of Paris, 15 August 1944 Plaque is more than stone. It’s a testament to Parisian courage. It is a reminder of sacrifice and ultimate triumph. Let us remember those who endured. Let us honor those who fought for freedom. Let this memorial inspire us all.