The Great Terror, also known as the Reign of Terror, was a period during the French Revolution from September 1793 to July 1794, characterized by extreme political repression and mass executions of perceived enemies of the revolution. It was led primarily by the Jacobins and their leader, Maximilien Robespierre, who believed that terror was necessary to protect the revolutionary government and achieve its goals. This era marked a pivotal shift in the revolution, where radical measures were taken to eliminate opposition and consolidate power.
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During the Great Terror, approximately 16,000 people were executed by guillotine, with many more dying in prison or through extrajudicial killings.
The Law of 22 Prairial was enacted in June 1794, which expedited trials and allowed for quicker executions, further escalating the violence.
The Great Terror led to widespread fear and paranoia, as anyone could be accused of being an enemy of the revolution, including former allies.
Robespierre's justification for the use of terror was that it was necessary to protect democracy and maintain order during a time of crisis.
The Great Terror ended with Robespierre's fall from power in July 1794, leading to his arrest and execution, marking a turning point away from radicalism in the revolution.
Review Questions
How did Robespierre's leadership influence the actions taken during the Great Terror?
Robespierre's leadership had a profound impact on the Great Terror, as he believed strongly in the necessity of using terror to protect the revolution. His vision led to the establishment of the Committee of Public Safety as a powerful governing body that enforced strict measures against those deemed counter-revolutionary. Under his guidance, laws were passed that expedited executions, creating an environment where fear dictated political behavior and loyalty to revolutionary ideals.
Discuss the societal impacts of the Great Terror on France during the French Revolution.
The Great Terror had significant societal impacts on France, instilling widespread fear among citizens who lived under constant threat of arrest or execution. The government’s radical measures disrupted social norms and relationships, creating an atmosphere where suspicion prevailed over trust. This period also polarized society, as former allies turned against one another in self-preservation, reflecting deep divisions that would have long-lasting effects on French politics and culture.
Evaluate how the end of the Great Terror reshaped the course of the French Revolution and influenced future governance in France.
The end of the Great Terror marked a crucial turning point in the French Revolution, as it led to a rejection of extreme radicalism and paved the way for more moderate governance. Following Robespierre's execution in July 1794, France entered a phase known as the Thermidorian Reaction, which saw a dismantling of many of the revolutionary policies that had caused widespread violence. This shift set the stage for future political structures in France, including the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and changes in governance that reflected a balance between revolutionary ideals and stability.
Maximilien Robespierre was a key figure in the French Revolution and a leading member of the Committee of Public Safety, instrumental in implementing the policies of the Great Terror.
A powerful political body established during the French Revolution that governed France during the most tumultuous phases, including the Great Terror.
Guillotine: A device used for carrying out executions by beheading, which became a symbol of the Reign of Terror due to its use in mass executions during this period.