Question

Write a note on the Reign of Terror in France.

Answer 1

Instructions:

The answer to this question can be broken into 4 parts:

1. Introduction and period (1 mark)
2. Why it is called the Reign of Terror (1 mark)
3. Policies followed (2 mark)
4. Fall of Robespierre (1 mark)

Solution:

Maximilian Robespierre, the Jacobin leader became the President of the National Convention. Robespierre’s reign between 1793 and 1794 is called the Reign of Terror, owing to the policy of severe control and punishment that he followed.

All those whom he saw as being ‘enemies’ of the republic e.g. ex-nobles, clergy etc were arrested, imprisoned and then tried by a revolutionary tribunal. And if the court found them ‘guilty’, they were guillotined.

Robespierre’s government issued laws placing a maximum ceiling on wages and prices. Meat and bread were rationed. Peasants were forced to transport their grain to the cities and sell it at prices fixed by the government. The use of more expensive white flour was forbidden; all citizens were required to eat the equality bread. Equality was also sought to be practised through forms of speech and address - Instead of the traditional Monsieur (Sir) and Madame (Madam), all French men and women were henceforth Citoyen and Citoyenne (Citizen). Churches were shut down and their buildings converted into barracks or offices.

Robespierre pursued his policies so relentlessly that even his supporters began to demand moderation. Finally, he was convicted by a court and sent to the guillotine.