Explore the impact of the September Massacres on the French Revolution and how it shaped the trajectory of the revolution. Discover the contrasting opinions towards the massacres and the downfall of Robert Barker. Discuss the role of revolutionary violence and growing factionalism. Learn about the deep divide between the Girondons and Parisian radicals after the massacres, paving the way for other revolutionary groups to take charge.
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Quick takeaways
The September massacres deepened the division between the Girondins and the Parisian radicals, shaping the future course of the revolution.
The reactions of average citizens varied, with some accepting the murders as necessary to protect the revolution.
The September massacres influenced the composition of the National Convention, resulting in the dominance of Montagnard delegates and the institutionalization of revolutionary violence.
Deep dives
Reactions to the September Massacres
The reactions of everyday citizens to the September massacres were varied. While some were disgusted and outraged by the killings, many citizens accepted the murders as a necessary action to secure their safety and protect the revolution. Some even justified the killings, believing that the prisoners intended to harm innocent citizens in counter-revolutionary plots. The majority of Parisians silently supported the bloodshed, allowing the small group of assailants to continue the massacres for almost a week.
Impact on the National Convention
The September massacres had a significant impact on the elections for the new National Convention. The massacres, along with the atmosphere of fear and suspicion, influenced the composition and priorities of the convention. The election process, held in the Jacobin Club and without the secrecy of voting, further skewed the results. The Montagnard faction, embracing violence, gained more influence, while the Girondins, who were disgusted by the bloodshed, grew to distrust the capital and its radical cohorts.
Shifting Relationship between Girondins and Parisian Radicals
The September massacres marked a turning point in the relationship between the Girondins and the Parisian radicals, specifically the San-Culottes. While the two sides had a strained relationship before, the bloodshed deepened the divide. The Girondins came to intensely dislike the commune, the Jacobin Club, and the populace of Paris. This soured relationship had implications for the future course of the revolution, as the Girondins, seeking to lead the nation, had no prospect of leading the capital or its radical factions.
Impact of September Massacres on the Composition and Priorities of the National Convention
The September massacres shaped the composition of the national convention and set the agenda for the new legislature. The elections in Paris resulted in the dominance of Montagnard delegates, with not a single Girondin elected. The bloodshed, along with various other factors such as voter intimidation and decisions to ignore certain electors, suppressed dissenting voices and contributed to the overwhelming victory of the Montagnards. The threat of violence and the possibility of violence had a significant influence on the outcome of the elections.
Legitimization and Institutionalization of Revolutionary Violence
The September massacres led to the legitimization and institutionalization of revolutionary violence. The Jacobins, particularly the Montagnards, aligned themselves with the Parisian militants and defended the massacres. By accepting popular violence as a means to save the revolution, the Jacobins sought to control and harness this force for their own agenda. This acceptance of violence had a profound impact on the character of the revolution, as the authorities tried to monopolize and direct revolutionary violence to address threats from counter-revolutionaries and other revolutionaries. The September massacres played a pivotal role in paving the way for the reign of terror.
How did the September Massacres change the character of the French Revolution? How did they alter the course and trajectory of the revolutionary project? How did average Parisians react to the gruesome events? These are the questions explored by the third and final part on the dark days of September 1792.
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About
Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon is a podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of our history. By examining both the experiences of contemporaries and the conclusions of historians, Grey History seeks to unpack the ambiguities and nuances of the past. Understanding the French Revolution and the age of Napoleon is critical to understanding the history of the world, so join us on a journey through a series of events that would be almost unbelievable if it weren't for the fact that it's true! If you're looking for a binge-worthy history podcast on the Revolution and Napoleon, you're in the right place! Enjoy the Revolutions podcast? You'll love this!