Federated Legion of Women | |
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Légion des Fédérées | |
![]() Proclamation of the "first company of volunteer citizen women", signed by Jules Montels (Murailles politiques françaises, 1874[1]). | |
Active | 10–28 May 1871 |
Country | ![]() |
Allegiance | ![]() |
Branch | National Guard |
Type | Battalion |
Size | 20-100 |
Garrison/HQ | 12th arrondissement |
Commanders | |
Colonel | Adélaïde Valentin |
Captain | Louise Neckbecker |
The Federated Legion of Women (French: légion des Fédérées) was an armed unit composed of women active during the Paris Commune in May 1871. It was founded in the 12th arrondissement, with the intended mission of hunting down deserters. The legion had uniforms, parades, and a standard-bearer, and was led by two officers, Colonel Adélaïde Valentin and Captain Louise Neckbecker. There were an estimated 20-100 members, most from working-class backgrounds. They held and attended meetings in Parisian political clubs, where they incited citizens to take up arms. After the defeat of the Commune, arrested members were given heavy sentences, including forced labour and deportation.