๐ Definition of the Reign of Terror
The Reign of Terror (1793-1794) was a period of extreme violence during the French Revolution, marked by mass executions of perceived enemies of the revolution. Maximilien Robespierre and the Committee of Public Safety played central roles.
๐ Historical Background
- ๐ซ๐ท French Revolution Origins: The French Revolution, beginning in 1789, sought to overthrow the monarchy and establish a republic.
- โ๏ธ War and Crisis: France was at war with European powers, facing internal rebellions and economic problems.
- โ๏ธ Rise of Radicalism: Radical factions, like the Jacobins, gained power advocating for drastic measures to protect the revolution.
๐ Key Principles and Actors
- ๐ค Maximilien Robespierre: A leading Jacobin figure and member of the Committee of Public Safety, he advocated for the use of terror to defend the revolution.
- ๐ก๏ธ Committee of Public Safety: A 12-member committee that held dictatorial power, responsible for making decisions and enforcing policies during the Reign of Terror.
- ๐ช Law of Suspects: This law broadened the definition of 'enemies of the revolution', leading to mass arrests and trials.
๐ Real-World Examples and Events
- โ๏ธ Mass Arrests and Trials: Thousands of people were arrested and tried by revolutionary tribunals, often with little evidence.
- ๐ช Execution of Marie Antoinette: The former queen was executed in October 1793, symbolizing the revolution's rejection of the old order.
- ๐ The Guillotine: Became the symbol of the Reign of Terror, used for mass executions in public squares.
- ๐ฅ Vendรฉe Rebellion: Brutal suppression of a royalist rebellion in the Vendรฉe region of France.
๐ Statistics of the Terror
| Category |
Number |
| Total Executions |
Approximately 16,600 |
| Deaths in Prison or without Trial |
Approximately 10,000 |
| Total Arrests |
Approximately 300,000 |
๐ End of the Reign of Terror
- ๐๏ธ Thermidorian Reaction: Opposition to Robespierre grew due to the increasing number of executions and his dictatorial control.
- ้ฎๆ Arrest and Execution of Robespierre: Robespierre and his allies were arrested and executed in July 1794 (9 Thermidor in the Revolutionary calendar), ending the Reign of Terror.
- ๐ Shift in Power: The Thermidorian Reaction led to a more moderate phase of the French Revolution.
๐ Conclusion
The Reign of Terror remains a controversial period in history, highlighting the dangers of radicalism and the complexities of revolution. Understanding its causes, key players, and consequences is crucial for AP History students.