Maximilien Robespierre
Political Figure
Name at birth: Maximilien François Marie Isidore de Robespierre
Influenced by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Robespierre went from being active in the National Assembly of France to being a leader of the Jacobins during the French Revolution. Called "The Incorruptible" because of his self-described moral virtue, he was a member of the Committee of Public Safety and the de facto leader of the country between 1793 and 1794. Robespierre's extreme and violent response to opposition was dubbed The Reign of Terror, and his ruthlessness eventually led to his downfall. On July 27, 1794 he was arrested and tried, then guillotined the next day.
Four Good Links
Maximilien Robespierre
Biographical sketch from The History Guide
Speech on the Festival of the Supreme Being
Brief introduction, followed by a speech by Robespierre
Robespierre, Maximilien Marie Isadore
Encyclopedia entry briefly explaining his role in history
Master of The Terror
Fine historical essay about his role in events
Vital Stats
Birth
Birthplace
Death
28 July 1794
(beheading, age 36)
Best Known As
French revolutionary leader during the Reign of Terror
