The Reign of Terror, also known as The Terror, was a period of time during the French Revolution when the government enacted a series of repressive measures to control the populace. Many people were arrested and executed without trial, and others were simply killed in the street. The Reign of Terror was justified by the need to quell the insurgency and protect the Revolution from its enemies, both internal and external. However, the methods used were brutal and excessive, and many innocent people were caught up in the violence.
The Reign of Terror began in September of 1793, after the outbreak of the War of the First Coalition. The new French Republic was under threat from both within and without, and the government saw the need to take drastic measures to protect itself. The Revolutionary Tribunal was established to try those accused of counter-revolutionary activity, and the Committee of Public Safety was given sweeping powers to arrest and imprison suspects.
Throughout the Reign of Terror, tens of thousands of people were arrested, and over 16,000 were executed. The vast majority of those killed were poor and working class, as they were the most likely to be involved in revolts and uprisings. The nobility and the bourgeoisie were also targeted, as they were seen as the source of the counter-revolution.
The Reign of Terror came to an end in July of 1794, after the fall of Maximilien Robespierre. Robespierre, the leader of the Committee of Public Safety, had become the most powerful man in France, and he used his power to ruthlessly suppress any and all dissent. However, his enemies finally succeeded in turning the tide against him, and he was arrested and executed.
The Reign of Terror was a dark and bloody chapter in the history of the French Revolution. It was justified by the need to protect the Revolution from its enemies, but the methods used were excessive and brutal. Thousands of innocent people were caught up in the violence, and the country was plunged into chaos.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the reign of Terror affect the French Revolution?
The Reign of Terror had a negative effect on the French Revolution because it led to instability and divided the nation.
Where did the reign of Terror take place?
The reign of terror took place in France during the brief period of rule of the urban workers, or 'sans-culottes' , called the Jacobin government because of their alliance with the political Jacobin Club.
What was the reign of Terror?
The Reign of Terror, also called the Terror, was a period of state-sanctioned violence and mass executions during the French Revolution. Between Sept. 5, 1793, and July 27, 1794, France's revolutionary government ordered the arrest and execution of thousands of people.
Why did Robespierre start the reign of Terror?
Maximilien Robespierre believed that the Terror would help rid France of its enemies, who he believed were the Girondins.
What did Georges Danton argue about the reign of Terror?
Georges Danton argued that the instability threatening the revolution, which had justified the Terror, had ended.
