Hara Kiri was a French monthly satirical magazine, first published in 1960.

The magazine, subtitled “Journal bête et méchant” (Stupid and evil magazine), was constantly aiming at established powers, be they political parties or institutions like the Church or the State. In 1961 and 1966 the magazine was temporarily banned by the French Government.

In November 1970, following the death of general de Gaulle at his home in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises, Hara-Kiri Hebdo bore the headline “Bal tragique à Colombey : 1 mort” (English: Tragic ball at Colombey: 1 death).

The title refers to another tragedy that month: a fire at a discotheque where 146 people were killed. As a result, the magazine was immediately and permanently banned by the French authorities.

Those who still own original Hara Kiri copies are sitting on a goldmine — they have now become true collector’s items. If you’re not that lucky you can admire a large amount of front covers on this site.