Eugène Edine Pottier facts for kids
Eugène Edme Pottier (born October 4, 1816 – died November 6, 1887) was a French poet, revolutionary, and worker. He is most famous for writing the words to "The Internationale," a very important song for workers and revolutionary movements around the world.
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Who Was Eugène Pottier?
Eugène Pottier was born in Paris, France. He worked as a transport worker, but he also had a passion for writing poetry. He believed in fairness and equality for all people. This led him to become involved in revolutionary movements.
The Paris Commune
In March 1871, Pottier was chosen to be a member of the Paris Commune. This was a special government set up by the people of Paris during a time of great change. The Commune aimed to create a more equal society. However, it only lasted for a short time before it was defeated.
Writing "The Internationale"
After the Paris Commune was defeated, Eugène Pottier wrote a powerful poem called L'Internationale in June 1871. This poem became an anthem, or official song, for a large group called the International Workingmen's Association. Later, a musician named Pierre De Geyter wrote music for the poem.
"The Internationale" became one of the most famous songs for change and workers' rights. It has been used by many groups around the world who want to create a fairer society.
His Life and Legacy
After writing "The Internationale," Eugène Pottier had to leave France and live in exile for some years. He lived in New York City from 1873 to 1880. He later returned to France.
Pottier died in 1887 without much money. However, his poem, "The Internationale," lived on. Even a famous leader named Vladimir Lenin recognized Pottier's importance in 1913. Today, "The Internationale" is still sung in many countries as a symbol of unity and the fight for a better world.
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