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Louis XVI’s Fate Dominated Convention
- The National Convention's main early focus was deciding Louis XVI's fate, not writing a new constitution.
- His captivity and contemptuous treatment fueled divisions defining revolutionary France's future.
Consensus on Guilt, Dispute on Punishment
- All delegates agreed Louis XVI was guilty of treason; the divide was over what to do next.
- The Mountain pushed for swift execution, while the Girondins aimed to delay and avoid execution.
Legal Innovation for King’s Trial
- Louis's immunity came from the people who could revoke it; thus, the Convention could try him.
- Without precedent, the trial was improvised to satisfy legal appearance while addressing revolutionary needs.