The Reign of Terror

Definition

The Reign of Terror was a period during the French Revolution, from September 1793 to July 1794, marked by extreme political repression and violence led by the revolutionary government. It was characterized by the widespread use of the guillotine and mass executions of perceived enemies of the revolution, reflecting the tensions between revolutionary ideals and the fear of counter-revolutionary threats. This tumultuous time aimed to consolidate power among the revolutionaries and eliminate opposition, ultimately leading to significant changes in French society and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the Reign of Terror, an estimated 16,000 to 40,000 people were executed, including notable figures like Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
2. The Reign of Terror was initiated partly due to fears of foreign invasion and internal insurrection against the revolution.
3. The Law of Suspects allowed for the arrest of individuals based on vague accusations of being enemies of the revolution.
4. The period ended with the fall of Robespierre in July 1794, which marked a shift away from radicalism and violence in revolutionary politics.
5. Public sentiment began to turn against the Reign of Terror as fear grew over the arbitrary nature of arrests and executions, leading to calls for moderation.

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 overseeing policies aimed at consolidating power and eliminating perceived threats to the revolution. It authorized widespread arrests and executions to suppress dissent and enforce revolutionary ideals. The committee's leadership, particularly under Robespierre, justified its actions as necessary for defending the revolution against internal and external enemies, ultimately intensifying violence during this chaotic period.
• Discuss how public opinion shifted during the Reign of Terror and what factors contributed to this change.
  • Initially, many supported the Reign of Terror as a means to protect revolutionary gains; however, as executions mounted and paranoia spread, public opinion began to shift. Factors such as increasing fear over arbitrary arrests under the Law of Suspects, along with disillusionment with radical leaders like Robespierre, fueled growing discontent. The realization that anyone could be a target for execution led to widespread anxiety and calls for moderation, ultimately culminating in Robespierre's downfall.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the Reign of Terror on French society and its political landscape following its conclusion.
  • The Reign of Terror had profound long-term effects on French society and its political landscape. It instilled a legacy of fear regarding government authority and state-sponsored violence, influencing future governance models in France. After Robespierre's execution, there was a move towards more conservative policies during the Thermidorian Reaction, reflecting a rejection of extremism. Additionally, it laid groundwork for ongoing debates about liberty versus security in revolutionary contexts, echoing throughout subsequent French history.

Related terms

Committee of Public Safety: A powerful governing body during the French Revolution that oversaw the Reign of Terror and was responsible for many of the executions.

Guillotine: A device used for carrying out executions by beheading, symbolizing the radicalism and violence of the Reign of Terror.

Maximilien Robespierre: A leading figure in the French Revolution and chief architect of the Reign of Terror, advocating for revolutionary justice and political virtue.