Maximilien Robespierre was a key figure during the French Revolution. Born on May 6, 1758, in Arras, France, he became one of the most influential leaders of the Reign of Terror, which was a period of extreme violence that occurred from 1793 to 1794.
Robespierre was educated at the College of Louis-le-Grand in Paris, where he excelled in his studies and developed a passion for Rousseau's philosophy. His early career was marked by his work as a lawyer, where he defended the poor and advocated for social justice, which aligned with the revolutionary ideals of the time.
During his time on the Committee, Robespierre's policies led to the Reign of Terror. This period was characterized by:
By mid-1794, Robespierre's policies had alienated many of his supporters. His refusal to compromise and his increasing use of the Terror against political rivals led to his arrest and execution on July 28, 1794 (9 Thermidor Year II according to the French Republican Calendar). This event marked the end of the Reign of Terror.
Robespierre's legacy is complex; he is often viewed as both a champion of the oppressed and a tyrant. His ideas on democracy, equality, and justice continue to influence political thought. However, his association with the Terror has left him with a controversial reputation: