Bonnot Gang facts for kids
The Bonnot Gang was a group of French anarchists who became famous for robbing banks in the early 1900s. They were known for being the first to use a getaway car after their crimes. They also used special repeating rifles, which even the police didn't have at the time. Their actions included bank robbery and auto theft. The gang believed in something called illegalism, which meant they thought they could break any laws they wanted. They believed the state (or government) didn't have the right to make rules for them. The gang was named after its leader, Jules Bonnot. They were very famous between 1911 and 1912 and have become legends through books, television, and movies in France and other countries.
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Who Were the Bonnot Gang?
The Bonnot Gang was a small group of people who called themselves "anarchists." This means they believed people should live without a government telling them what to do. They were active in France from 1911 to 1912.
Their Unique Methods
The gang became well-known for their unusual ways of committing crimes. They were the first to use cars to escape after robbing banks. This was a new idea back then! They also used advanced weapons like repeating rifles. These guns could fire many shots quickly, which was a big advantage over the police's older weapons.
What Was "Illegalism"?
A key idea for the Bonnot Gang was "illegalism." This was a belief that some anarchists held. It meant they thought it was okay to break laws. They didn't believe the government had the right to create laws or tell people what to do. So, they felt free to act outside the law.
Their Fame and Legacy
Even though the Bonnot Gang was only active for a short time, they became very famous. People talked about their daring actions all over France. Their story has been told in many ways since then. You can find them in books, on television, and in movies. They are still remembered as a unique part of French history.
Images for kids
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Caricature of the Bonnot gang
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Octave Garnier
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Raymond Callemin
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Étienne Monier
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André Soudy
