Paris: Key Historical Events

1. Founding by the Parisii Tribe (250-225 BC) The tribe known as the Parisii established a fishing village on the banks of the Seine River, which eventually grew into the city we know today as Paris.

2. Roman Occupation (52 BC-486 AD) Paris, known then as Lutetia, was occupied by the Romans from 52 BC until 486 AD. They built roads, bridges, and buildings, transforming the area into a proper Roman city.

3. Constantinople's Sack (1204) Paris became a powerful city when the French took part in the Fourth Crusade and sacked the city of Constantinople. Afterwards, Paris became a center of commerce and culture.

4. The Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453) This marked a tumultuous period in Paris's history, as it was captured and recaptured by different forces. The war ended with the victory of the Kingdom of France.

5. Renaissance Era (15th-16th centuries) Paris flourished during the Renaissance, becoming a center of arts, science, and ideas.

6. French Revolution (1789-1799) The Revolution saw the collapse of the Bourbon Monarchy, the rise of radical political groups, and ultimately, the establishment of a French Republic. Iconic incidents like the Storming of the Bastille and Reign of Terror happened during this era.

7. Construction of the Eiffel Tower (1887-1889) One of the world’s most famous landmarks was completed to serve as the entrance to the 1889 World's Fair, marking a significant event in Paris's architectural history.

8. World War II Occupation (1940-1944) Paris was occupied by the German forces during World War II. It was liberated by the Allied forces in August 1944.

9. Post-War Reconstruction (1950s-present) Since the mid-20th century, Paris has established itself as an important international city, and it continues to be a leading center for the arts, culture, finance, and more.

10. Terrorist Attacks (2015) In one of the city's darkest moments, a series of coordinated terrorist attacks on November 13, 2015, resulted in the death of 130 people, impacting the city and the world deeply.