Quiet defiance in Paris as thousands gather in solidarity for 'Charlie Hebdo'

PARIS — Considering the huge numbers of people in the Place de la République, the atmosphere was eerily subdued.

Most of the thousands gathered in central Paris in solidarity with the 12 that were killed in Wednesday's attack were silent, holding "Je suis Charlie" signs or candles in quiet reflection and facing the famous statue of Marianne, that French symbol of liberty, democracy and reason.

See also: 'Je Suis Charlie': Huge crowds gather across Europe after Paris attack

Every so often sporadic clapping would break out, as would chants of "Charlie", and other slogans: "Together united for democracy"; "We are all Charlie"; and "Freedom of expression at the end of our pencils." Read more...

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