The Power of the Committee of Public Safety

Who created the Committee of Public Safety and used it to begin the Reign of Terror?

What impact did the Committee of Public Safety have on the French Revolution?

Answer:

The Committee of Public Safety was created by Maximilien Robespierre and was used to begin the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution.

Explanation:

The Committee of Public Safety was a powerful executive body established by Maximilien Robespierre during the French Revolution. Robespierre utilized the committee to centralize authority and uphold public order, particularly in the midst of turmoil and threats to the revolution. The Committee's actions were aimed at safeguarding the principles of the revolution and eliminating opposition forces.

One of the most notorious periods associated with the Committee of Public Safety was the Reign of Terror, which lasted from 1793 to 1794. During this time, the committee implemented drastic measures to defend the revolution against internal and external foes. Thousands of individuals, including perceived counter-revolutionaries and enemies of the state, were arrested, tried, and executed by guillotine.

The Committee's uncompromising stance and use of extraordinary methods during the Reign of Terror ultimately led to widespread fear and social unrest. While it aimed to protect the revolution, the Reign of Terror also caused severe divisions within French society and raised ethical concerns regarding the use of violence for political ends.

Despite its controversial legacy, the Committee of Public Safety played a significant role in shaping the course of the French Revolution and asserting revolutionary ideals. Its actions reflected the challenging complexities of revolutionary governance and the persistent struggle for stability and legitimacy in times of upheaval.