W.W.H.D?
W.W.H.D? What would Haussmann do? Georges-Eugene Haussmann is responsible for the Paris that we all know today. He was commissioned by Napoleon III to take a city with narrow streets where rebellions could form easily, Les Mis style, and create a beautiful city with great terminal vistas and enclosure that makes everyone happy.
Now, what was it like before Haussmann got a hold on Paris? One of the big characteristics of pre-Haussmann Paris was overcrowding. Overcrowding led to disease, and disease led to death. Basically, pre-Haussmann Paris was not a great place to live.
Haussmann took the old overcrowded Paris and leveled certain parts of it in phases. Between 1853 and 1870, he built wide avenues, parks, and necessary infrastructure for a city like sewers and aqueducts. These renovations and changes were necessary for Paris to continue to grow and for the well being of the French people.
Thanks Haussmann, you’re a real dude.
Imagining 1 man have so much power is quite disturbing. I think in the long run it had a good outcome even if in the short run it was total obliteration. Thanks Haussy XOXO
I think what’s interesting about Hausmann’s approach was that it was an undeniably good thing that I don’t believe could happen democratically or naturally. At the time it was probably viewed unfavorably, but I don’t think too many people nowadays hold a grudge.