his conversion from a wealthy society author to the non-violent and spiritual anarchist of his later days was notable. it was caused by his experience in the army as well as two trips around europe in 1857 and 1860–61. others who followed a similar path were alexander herzen, mikhail bakunin and peter kropotkin. during his 1857 visit, tolstoy saw a public execution in paris, an experience which marked the rest of his life.