key term - Committee of Public Safety

Definition

The Committee of Public Safety was a political body established during the French Revolution, tasked with protecting the newly formed French Republic from both external and internal threats. It wielded significant power during the Reign of Terror, overseeing the execution of perceived enemies of the revolution and enforcing revolutionary laws, making it a crucial element in the radical phase of the revolution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Committee of Public Safety was created in April 1793 in response to military threats and internal unrest, initially intended as a temporary measure.
2. It consisted of twelve members who had sweeping powers, including overseeing military efforts, managing domestic security, and implementing revolutionary policies.
3. Under Robespierre's influence, the committee justified mass executions as necessary to protect the revolution and promote a 'Republic of Virtue'.
4. During its time in power, thousands were executed using the guillotine, with notable figures such as Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette falling victim to its decisions.
5. The committee's power diminished after Robespierre's fall in July 1794, leading to a backlash against the excesses of the Reign of Terror and a shift towards more moderate governance.

Review Questions

• How did the Committee of Public Safety justify its actions during the Reign of Terror?
  • The Committee of Public Safety justified its actions during the Reign of Terror by claiming that radical measures were necessary to protect the revolution from external enemies and internal traitors. They argued that executing perceived threats would create a safer environment for the Republic and ensure the survival of revolutionary ideals. This justification appealed to a climate of fear and urgency, allowing them to maintain authority while implementing extreme policies.
• Discuss the role of Maximilien Robespierre within the Committee of Public Safety and how his leadership influenced revolutionary policies.
  • Maximilien Robespierre played a pivotal role within the Committee of Public Safety as one of its most influential members. He championed radical policies aimed at achieving a 'Republic of Virtue', pushing for greater surveillance and control over society. His belief in using terror as a tool for governance led to increased executions, fostering an atmosphere where dissent was ruthlessly suppressed. This ultimately contributed to both his rise in power and his eventual downfall when opposition against his extreme measures grew.
• Analyze how the formation and actions of the Committee of Public Safety reflected broader themes in revolutionary movements throughout history.
  • The formation and actions of the Committee of Public Safety reflect broader themes in revolutionary movements, such as the tension between liberty and security. As revolutions often seek to overthrow oppressive regimes, they can lead to drastic measures in safeguarding new ideals against perceived threats. The Committee's focus on enforcing conformity through fear illustrates how revolutions can sometimes devolve into authoritarianism when leaders prioritize survival over democratic principles. This pattern is seen across various historical revolutions, where initial aspirations for freedom give way to violence and repression.

Related terms

Reign of Terror:

A period from September 1793 to July 1794 during the French Revolution marked by extreme political repression, where thousands were executed for alleged counter-revolutionary activities.

Maximilien Robespierre:

A leading figure in the Committee of Public Safety and one of the most influential leaders during the Reign of Terror, known for his radical views and advocacy for virtue through terror.

National Convention: The revolutionary assembly that governed France from 1792 until 1795, during which the Committee of Public Safety was created and gained power.