Abstract

In the 19th century, Europe entered the era of industrial revolutions and was engulfed in two interconnected processes: industrialization and urbanization. Against the background of the rapid development of industry and economy, cities had to face serious social problems such as epidemics, lack of housing, unsanitary conditions, crime, etc. Cities became sources of social tension and constant unrest, which undermined the stability of political institutions. The situation was seriously aggravated and worsened due to the fact that the urban space failed to keep up with new social challenges. So, one of the main urban issues of that time were sprawling slums. Governments and city planners had to look for ways out of the prevailing situation and develop competent strategies for further urban development. In France, the accession of Napoleon III in the middle of the 19th century, marked the beginning of a largescale reconstruction of Paris directed by the Prefect of the Seine Baron J. Haussmann. Te renovation aimed at solving both social and political problems. It was assumed that the implementation of the project would not only remedy the city’s growing social problems, but also prevent the possibility of social unrest and protest actions in the future. Te purpose of this work is to analyze the main urban planning solutions adopted during this period, and to identify the key social corollaries of the work carried out. It is concluded that as a result of the Haussmannisation of Paris the city became a modern political, cultural and economic center, shook of the chains of medieval urban fabric and remnants of the past, while the city residents acquired a new lifestyle and new everyday urban practices. Te reconstruction of the French capital demonstrated the role and the potential of urban planning as a tool for managing society. In many respects, the modern appearance of Paris was formed precisely as a result of Haussmannisation, whose broad lines and social purpose are discussed in this article.