The emergence and spread of the Terror, September 1792–1795 study guide

Study Guide: The Terror in the French Revolution

Key Themes

• Radicalization of the Revolution: Understand how the pressures of war and internal dissent led to increasingly radical measures.
• Role of Key Figures: Analyze the influence of Robespierre, the sans-culottes, and the CPS in shaping the policies of the Terror.
• Impact of War: Explore how external threats and internal revolts contributed to the justification of the Terror.

Important Events

• Execution of Louis XVI: Discuss the implications of the King’s execution for the Republic and the radical factions.
• The Vendée Uprising: Examine the causes and consequences of this significant internal conflict.
• The Levée en Masse: Assess how this policy affected the military and societal structure of revolutionary France.
• Fall of Robespierre: Evaluate the reasons behind Robespierre's downfall and its impact on the Revolution.

Suggested Questions for Analysis

1. How did the establishment of the Republic create tensions that led to the Terror?
2. In what ways did the external wars influence the internal policies of the revolutionary government?
3. What role did propaganda and public sentiment play in the spread of the Terror?
4. To what extent was the Terror a necessary response to the challenges faced by the Republic?
5. How did the fall of Robespierre signify a shift in revolutionary ideals and practices?