Paris 1892

The year 1892 in Paris was marked by several significant events:

Economic Depression: Paris was suffering from a severe economic depression in 1892. This depression was due to the financial crash of 1882 and the phylloxera crisis that devastated French vineyards in the late 19th century. This economic downturn led to social unrest and labor strikes across the city.

Anarchist Activity: The early 1890s were a period of intense anarchist activity in France, particularly in Paris. The French state was under constant threat from anarchist bombings and assassination attempts. For instance, in November 1892, the anarchist Émile Henry planted a bomb at the offices of the Carmaux Mining Company in response to the company’s treatment of striking workers.

Labor Strikes: Paris was a center of working-class unrest in 1892. The year was marked by numerous strikes, including a major miner’s strike in Carmaux which drew attention and support from Parisians. These labor movements played a significant role in shaping French society and politics.

The Panama Scandal: While it unfolded over several years, the Panama Scandal was at its height in 1892. The scandal erupted over the failure of the French Panama Canal Company, which led to widespread accusations of bribery and corruption involving several leading French politicians. The revelations had a profound effect on public life in Paris, causing outrage and further undermining public confidence in the French political establishment.

Cultural Developments: Despite the turmoil, Paris remained a center of cultural and intellectual activity. The year 1892 saw the publication of significant works like Joris-Karl Huysmans’ “Là-Bas,” a novel that explored the occult and Satanism in contemporary Paris.