Describe the Reign of Terror. What were the goals of the Terror, how was it justified.
The Reign of Terror was a period of immense violence and bloodshed that took place during the French Revolution from 1793 to 1794. It was characterized by mass executions, political purges, and the suppression of any opposition to the revolutionary government.
The primary goal of the Terror was to consolidate the power of the revolutionary government and protect the gains made by the French Revolution. It was driven by a sense of fear and paranoia, as the revolutionaries believed that counter-revolutionaries, or "enemies of the revolution," were plotting to overthrow the new republic and restore the monarchy.
The justifications put forth for the Terror were primarily based on the need for national security and the preservation of the revolutionary ideals. The Committee of Public Safety, which held the reins of power during this period, argued that revolutionary principles and liberty were under threat, and that extreme measures were necessary to protect them. They believed that the use of terror and violence would deter potential enemies and serve as a warning to anyone who might oppose the revolution.
Furthermore, the Committee of Public Safety viewed the Terror as a means of achieving social equality and justice. They saw it as a way to suppress the aristocracy and other privileged classes who were perceived as enemies of the working class and supporters of the old monarchical system. By targeting those deemed to be enemies of the revolution, the Committee aimed to establish a more egalitarian society.
To understand the goals and justifications of the Terror, it is crucial to examine primary sources from the time, such as speeches, writings, and decrees issued by the Committee of Public Safety. Analyzing historical accounts and interpretations of the period can provide further insight into the motivations and reasoning behind the Terror.