PREMIERE - TERREUR ET DIRECTOIRE (1793-1799) - LA RÉVOLUTION FRANCAISE #2

Summary

This video explores the second phase of the French Revolution, detailing the critical events from the execution of King Louis XVI in January 1793 to Napoleon Bonaparte's coup d'état in November 1799. It highlights the clash between the radical Montagnards and the moderate Girondins, the onset of the Reign of Terror, and the external threats posed by anti-revolutionary coalitions. As political violence escalated, the fall of Robespierre marked the end of the Terror, leading to the establishment of the Directory. Ultimately, Napoleon seized power amid ongoing instability, setting the stage for his rule and the transformation of French society.

Takeaways

• 😀 The execution of King Louis XVI on January 23, 1793, marked a significant turning point in the French Revolution.
• 😀 The conflict between the Montagnards, led by Robespierre, and the Girondins, who favored economic liberalism, highlighted the division within revolutionary factions.
• 😀 The Montagnards seized control of the National Convention in June 1793, leading to the arrest of many Girondin deputies accused of conspiracy.
• 😀 The Committee of Public Safety, established in April 1793, was granted extensive powers to address internal and external threats to the revolution.
• 😀 The Reign of Terror involved severe repression, with the Law of Suspects enabling the arrest and execution of individuals deemed counter-revolutionary.
• 😀 Despite military successes in repelling external threats, Robespierre's dictatorship led to growing discontent and ultimately his downfall in July 1794.
• 😀 The Thermidorians, a faction of deputies, executed Robespierre, marking the end of the Reign of Terror and the return of Girondin deputies.
• 😀 The Directory, established in 1795, faced criticism for being a 'bourgeois republic' and struggled to maintain stability amidst popular uprisings.
• 😀 Napoleon Bonaparte emerged as a key figure during the political instability, gaining popularity through military successes.
• 😀 Napoleon's coup d'état on November 9, 1799, effectively ended the Directory, leading to the establishment of the Consulate and his rise to power.

Q & A

What event marks the beginning of the second phase of the French Revolution?

The second phase begins with the execution of Louis XVI on January 23, 1793.

Who were the main political factions during this period of the Revolution?

The two main factions were the Montagnards, led by Robespierre, and the Girondins, who were more moderate.

What was the significance of the Montagnards taking control of the Convention in June 1793?

The Montagnards' takeover allowed them to arrest Girondin deputies, consolidating their power and leading to more radical policies.

What external threats did France face during this time?

France faced a coalition of hostile powers, including Spain and Portugal, and declared war on Great Britain and the Dutch Republic.

What was the 'Law of Suspects,' and when was it enacted?

Enacted on September 17, 1793, the Law of Suspects allowed for the arrest and trial of anyone deemed a potential counter-revolutionary.

What led to the period known as the Reign of Terror?

The Reign of Terror was characterized by extreme violence and political repression in response to internal dissent and external threats.

How did Robespierre's grip on power end?

Robespierre was overthrown and executed by a group of deputies called the Thermidorians on July 27, 1794.

What political structure emerged after the fall of Robespierre?

The Directoire emerged in 1795, which was characterized by a legislative power held by two councils and an executive power held by five directors.

Why was the Directoire criticized?

The Directoire was criticized for being a 'bourgeois republic' and for excluding the poorer classes from voting due to its censitary electoral system.

What event led to Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power?

Napoleon rose to power following the coup d'état on November 9, 1799, which ended the Directoire and established the Consulate.