The Thermidorian Reaction and its Impact on the French Revolution
The Thermidorian Reaction marked a significant shift in the French Revolution, leading to the downfall of Maximilien Robespierre and the cessation of the Reign of Terror. This coalition of Thermidorians, comprising diverse political factions, united to oppose Robespierre's tyrannical rule. The aftermath saw the repeal of oppressive laws, reinstatement of civil liberties, and the establishment of a new constitutional regime, paving the way for Napoleon's ascent to power.
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The Thermidorian Reaction: A Turning Point in the French Revolution
The Thermidorian Reaction, which unfolded on the 9th and 10th of Thermidor, Year II (27-28 July 1794), marked a pivotal moment in the French Revolution. It signified the fall of Maximilien Robespierre, the end of the Reign of Terror, and the beginning of a new phase in the revolutionary government. The term "Thermidorian Reaction" derives from the French Republican Calendar, which was in use at the time and named the months after seasonal weather patterns.The Fall of Maximilien Robespierre
Maximilien Robespierre's influence waned during his absence from the political scene from 18 June to 26 July 1794. Upon his return, he delivered a speech to the National Convention, alluding to potential threats against the government, which only served to heighten tensions. On 9 Thermidor (27 July), he was silenced and arrested, along with his closest associates. By 10 Thermidor (28 July), Robespierre and 21 of his followers were guillotined, effectively terminating the Reign of Terror. Subsequently, the oppressive Law of 22 Prairial was repealed on 4 Thermidor (22 July 1794), signaling a move to restore civil liberties and dismantle the Terror's mechanisms.The Coalition of Thermidorians
The Thermidorians were a diverse coalition that coalesced to oppose Robespierre's rule. This group was not unified by a single ideology but rather by the shared objective of ending the Terror. It included former allies of Robespierre from the Montagnard faction, members of the influential Committees of Public Safety and General Security, and a range of moderates and non-aligned deputies. The increasing pace of executions had instilled fear across the political spectrum, leading many to join forces against Robespierre to protect themselves from the guillotine.Factors Leading to the Thermidorian Reaction
Several factors contributed to the Thermidorian Reaction and Robespierre's loss of support. His alienation of the Catholic population, the disenchantment of the sans-culottes due to economic policies, and the internal power struggles between the Committee of General Security and the Committee of Public Safety all played roles in his downfall. Additionally, Robespierre's establishment of the Cult of the Supreme Being, the execution of political rivals like the Hebertists, and changes to the General Maximum, which controlled prices and wages, further isolated him from former supporters.The Arrest and Execution of Robespierre and His Allies
The initial arrest of Robespierre and his allies was met with defiance by the Paris Commune, which remained loyal to him. However, the National Convention's declaration that they were outlaws led to a shift in allegiance among the National Guard, who then supported the Convention. The recapture and execution of Robespierre and his associates were carried out swiftly, marking a definitive end to their political influence and the Reign of Terror.Post-Thermidorian Reforms
Following the Thermidorian Reaction, the National Convention introduced several reforms to prevent the rise of another dictatorship. These reforms included the repeal of the Law of 22 Prairial, the release of political prisoners, the disbandment of the Revolutionary Tribunals, the decentralization of power away from the central committees, and the reinstatement of freedom of religion. The Constitution of Year III was enacted to delineate legislative and executive powers, fostering a more balanced governmental structure.Legacy and Impact of the Thermidorian Reaction
The Thermidorian Reaction had lasting effects on the course of the French Revolution. It brought an end to the Reign of Terror, but the subsequent regime faced significant challenges, including economic distress, social upheaval, and a period of retribution known as the White Terror. Despite these challenges, the Thermidorian Reaction is remembered as a crucial event that redefined the revolutionary government and set the stage for the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and the eventual establishment of the First French Empire in 1804.Want to create maps from your material?
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This event led to the downfall of ______, the cessation of the Reign of Terror, and initiated a new stage in the revolutionary regime.
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2
Robespierre's absence period before downfall
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3
Robespierre's speech impact on 9 Thermidor
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4
Law of 22 Prairial repeal date
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5
Among those who united against Robespierre were his former allies from the ______, members of the Committees of ______ and ______, and various moderates.
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6
Alienation of Catholic population by Robespierre
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7
Sans-culottes' disenchantment
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8
Conflict between Committees of Security and Public Safety
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9
The execution of Robespierre and his allies swiftly followed, concluding their political sway and the ______.
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Outcome of repealing Law of 22 Prairial
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11
Impact of Revolutionary Tribunals' disbandment
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Purpose of Constitution of Year III
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13
Following the ______ Reaction, France experienced the White Terror, along with ______ distress and social ______.
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