The Reign of Terror was a period during the French Revolution from September 1793 to July 1794, characterized by extreme political repression, mass executions, and radical social change. This time was marked by the government’s efforts to eliminate perceived enemies of the revolution and consolidate power, leading to the rise of the Committee of Public Safety and the infamous guillotine as a symbol of justice and terror.
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Approximately 16,000 people were officially executed during the Reign of Terror, with many more dying in prison or through extrajudicial means.
The Law of Suspects was enacted to define who could be arrested as an enemy of the revolution, leading to widespread paranoia and accusations.
The atmosphere of fear was heightened by revolutionary tribunals that conducted swift trials, often with little regard for evidence or due process.
The fall of Robespierre in July 1794 marked the end of the Reign of Terror, as he was arrested and executed by those who feared his dictatorial rule.
The Reign of Terror ultimately led to a backlash against radicalism in France, paving the way for the Thermidorian Reaction and a more conservative phase in the revolution.
Review Questions
How did the Committee of Public Safety influence the events during the Reign of Terror?
The Committee of Public Safety played a central role in orchestrating the Reign of Terror by assuming broad powers to protect the revolution from perceived threats. Led by Maximilien Robespierre, it oversaw trials and executions aimed at eliminating enemies within and outside France. Its actions intensified political repression, creating an atmosphere where fear ruled, and dissent was ruthlessly suppressed.
Evaluate the impact of the Reign of Terror on French society and politics during this period.
The Reign of Terror profoundly transformed French society and politics by instilling fear and uncertainty among citizens. It facilitated radical changes such as de-Christianization and reforms in education but also led to social divisions and widespread distrust. The extreme measures taken during this time ultimately alienated many supporters of the revolution, causing them to question its values and methods.
Analyze how the legacy of the Reign of Terror influenced future revolutionary movements and concepts of governance.
The legacy of the Reign of Terror has had a lasting impact on revolutionary movements and ideas about governance worldwide. It raised crucial questions about the balance between liberty and security, illustrating how revolutions can devour their own ideals when faced with internal strife. This duality continues to resonate in modern contexts where governments justify extreme measures in the name of national security, echoing the tensions witnessed during this tumultuous period in French history.
A powerful group led by Maximilien Robespierre that governed France during the Reign of Terror, responsible for enforcing revolutionary laws and overseeing trials.
Guillotine: A device used for carrying out executions by beheading, it became a symbol of the Reign of Terror and was seen as a method of achieving equality in death.
A leading figure in the French Revolution, known for his influential role during the Reign of Terror and advocating for the use of terror to protect the revolution.