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Questions and Answers
Maximilien Robespierre was born on May 6, 1760, in Arras, France.
Maximilien Robespierre was born on May 6, 1760, in Arras, France.
False
Robespierre was a lawyer and defended the wealthy and powerful.
Robespierre was a lawyer and defended the wealthy and powerful.
False
Robespierre was a moderate leader during the French Revolution.
Robespierre was a moderate leader during the French Revolution.
False
Robespierre was the leader of the National Convention during the Reign of Terror.
Robespierre was the leader of the National Convention during the Reign of Terror.
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King Louis XVI was executed in 1792.
King Louis XVI was executed in 1792.
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Robespierre believed in the idea of revolutionary impurity.
Robespierre believed in the idea of revolutionary impurity.
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Robespierre was executed by firing squad on July 27, 1794.
Robespierre was executed by firing squad on July 27, 1794.
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Robespierre's legacy is universally accepted as a positive one.
Robespierre's legacy is universally accepted as a positive one.
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Study Notes
Early Life and Career
- Born on May 6, 1758, in Arras, France, into a middle-class family
- Studious and intelligent, excelled in studies, and became a lawyer
- Pursued a career in law, defending the poor and advocating for social justice
Rise to Prominence in the Revolution
- Elected to the Estates-General in 1789, where he became a vocal critic of the monarchy
- Emerged as a key figure in the National Convention, supporting radical political reform
- Aligned with the radical Jacobin faction, leading to his rise to prominence
Leadership in the Revolution
- Played a significant role in the overthrow of the monarchy, particularly during the trial and execution of King Louis XVI in 1793
- Became one of the most influential leaders of the Committee of Public Safety during the Reign of Terror
Reign of Terror
- Led a campaign of mass executions to suppress dissent and root out counter-revolutionary elements
- Believed in revolutionary purity, leading to the execution of thousands of perceived enemies of the revolution
- Executed former allies and moderates, increasing his authoritarianism and isolation
Downfall and Execution
- Arrested on July 27, 1794, due to growing opposition within the National Convention and concerns about his power
- Executed by guillotine on July 28, 1794, marking the end of the Reign of Terror
Legacy
- Remembered as a polarizing figure in French history, celebrated by some as a champion of the people and a martyr for the revolutionary cause
- Criticized by others for his role in the Reign of Terror and the brutality of his methods
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Description
Learn about the life and role of Maximilien Robespierre, a prominent figure in the French Revolution, known for his radicalism and leadership.
