The Commune of Paris was a revolutionary government that ruled Paris from March 18 to May 28, 1871. It emerged after France's defeat in the Franco-Prussian War and the subsequent collapse of the Second Empire. The Commune aimed to establish a socialist government, promoting workers' rights and social reforms. During its brief existence, the Commune implemented various progressive policies, including the separation of church and state and the establishment of universal suffrage for men. However, it faced opposition from the French government, leading to a violent crackdown known as the Bloody Week, which ultimately resulted in the Commune's downfall.