Brain Pain discussion

This discussion covers Convolute E, Haussmannization, Barricade Fighting, p. 120 – 149


“The avenues [Haussmann] cut were entirely arbitrary: they were not based on strict deductions of the science of town planning. The measures he took were of a financial and military character.” Le Corbusier, Urbanisme (Paris), p. 250 [E2a,2]


Whatever Haussmann’s motives or intentions, his transformation was complete. Standing at Place de la Concorde, the evidence of this exertion of state control over the people can be seen in every direction. Baron Haussmann and Emperor Napoleon III left their mark on Paris in a most indelible way.

Imagine a builder and an Emperor, both with delusions of grandeur, getting their friends and themselves richer while re-building a city on the backs of workers, against whom they want to defend.

And having no sense of aesthetics to boot.

Hmmm. Haussmann and Napoleon - forerunners of 20th and 21st Century development?