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Arrest of a suspected Prussian spy; Franco-Prussian War, 187
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Arrest of a suspected Prussian spy; Franco-Prussian War, 187
Illustration showing the arrest of suspected Prussian spy in the busy Boulevard des Italiens, Paris, during the early stages of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1. William Simpson, one of the ILN special artists in France at this time, made sketches on cigarette papers so that he could smoke them or swallow them if he was arrested on suspicion of spying
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Media ID 4377588
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10219087
Arrest Arrested Boulevard Busy Cigarette Franco Italiens Papers Prussian Simpson Sketches Special Spying Stages Suspected Suspicion Swallow Made Will I Am
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This evocative illustration depicts the arrest of a suspected Prussian spy in the bustling Boulevard des Italiens, Paris, during the early stages of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1. The illustration, created by the renowned Illustrated London News (ILN) special artist, William Simpson, provides a vivid account of the heightened tensions and suspicion that engulfed the city during this period. Simpson, who was one of the ILN's artists stationed in France at the time, made these sketches on cigarette papers to conceal them from potential arrest on suspicion of spying. The small format of the sketches allowed him to carry them discreetly, either to be smoked or swallowed if necessary. The illustration shows the moment of arrest, with a French gendarme apprehending a man in the midst of the busy boulevard. The man, dressed in Prussian military attire, is surrounded by a crowd of onlookers, some of whom appear sympathetic to his plight, while others jeer and taunt him. The chaos and confusion of the scene are expertly captured by Simpson's skilled hand, providing a glimpse into the complex web of intrigue and danger that characterized the early days of the Franco-Prussian War. This historical illustration offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in European history, and serves as a reminder of the importance of journalistic integrity and courage during times of conflict. The arrest of this suspected Prussian spy in the heart of Paris underscores the high stakes and potential consequences of espionage during wartime, and adds to the rich tapestry of stories that make up the history of the Franco-Prussian War.
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