The spread of the Terror: executions; the influence of Robespierre and the sans culottes; the role of the CPS; Robespierre's fall and the collapse of the Terror
During the Terror (1793–94), the revolutionary government executed thousands of people it labelled enemies of France. A politician named Robespierre led this campaign, but his own allies eventually turned on him and had him guillotined.
Real World
Robespierre's Committee of Public Safety sent over 16,000 people to the guillotine and imprisoned 300,000 more — including former allies like Danton, executed in April 1794, showing how the Terror consumed even its own architects.
Exam Focus
Avoid describing executions as simply 'violent'; explain the political function of the Terror — examiners reward analysis of ideological justification and CPS decision-making.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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