COMMUNARDS Meaning and
Definition
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Communards, derived from the term "Commune," refers to the citizens or members who actively participate in or support a commune. The word has historical significance and is often associated with the Paris Commune of 1871, which was a radical and intense episode of political upheaval and social revolution in France.
In the context of this event, communards were primarily working-class individuals, artists, and intellectuals who rose against the ruling elite and sought to establish a form of grassroots governance based on principles of equality, meritocracy, and popular participation in decision-making. They aimed to challenge class inequalities and advocate for worker's rights.
Although the Paris Commune was short-lived and eventually suppressed, the term "communard" became an emblem of resistance and solidarity among left-wing and revolutionary movements. It has since transcended its specific historical connotations and often refers to individuals who subscribe to or embrace communal and egalitarian ideologies.
In a broader sense, communards can also refer to members of present-day communes or intentional living communities, which are characterized by shared ownership or common resources, collective decision-making, and a commitment to communal living principles. These modern-day communards may vary in their specific political or philosophical beliefs but generally engage in cooperative practices while emphasizing shared responsibility, sustainability, and social cohesion.
Etymology of COMMUNARDS
The term "communards" originates from the word "commune", which itself comes from the Latin word "communis", meaning "common" or "shared". The Commune of Paris, commonly referred to as the Paris Commune, occurred during the French Revolution in 1871. The Commune was a radical socialist and revolutionary government that briefly governed Paris from March to May of that year. Its members, mainly working-class citizens, were referred to as "communards", as they were associated with this movement and the establishment of the Paris Commune. The word soon became widely used to describe individuals who support or participate in communal or socialist movements.
