Francisco Ferrer; his life, work and martyrdom, with message written ...

His Life and Work. 57
THE AFTERMATH
As soon as the outrageous execution was known in
Europe, the indignation of the people became boundless.
Two of the radical papers of Paris, L'Humanite and
La Guerre Sociale, sent out special editions calling
the people to make demonstrations before the
Spanish Embassy. The Parisians answered by the
thousands. About 20,000 persons were assembled
in the Boulevard de Courcelles and the Boulevard
Malesherbes. They could not reach the embassy, as
it was strongly guarded by a considerable force of
police. The great Socialist leader Jaures, and other
members of Parliament were present. The immense
crowd were incessantly shouting: "Long live Ferrer!
Death to Alfonso! A bas I'Espagnc monarchiquc!
Vive Ferrer! Assassins! Assassins! And from time
to time they sang the "Internationale."
By a unanimous vote the Paris Municipal Council
has decided to provide for the support of Ferrer's
daughters and grandchildren. These latter, however,
refused to accept the proffered help. When Trinidad
Ferrer heard of her father's doom she indignantly renounced
her native country and became naturalized as
a French citizen. Paz Ferrer, another of his daughters,
who was utterly overcome, issued some heartbroken
and vehement defenses of her father. Both
were devoted to him.
Over fifty towns and cities in France named streets
after him.
The committee of the Rights of Man Society in Paris
resolved to raise a statue to his memory.
In many cities of Italy there were general strikes
for twenty-four hours or less, as a token of respect.
In Rome, the mayor, interpreting the universal feeling,
caused to be posted a black-edged manifesto protesting
against the "barbarous deed."
The municipal council of Genoa adjourned out of
respect for Sefior Ferrer.
The municipal officials of Florence decided to rename
the Via Arcivescavado, calling it instead the Via
Ferrer.