In this podcast, the hosts discuss the trial of Louis XVI during the French Revolution. They explore the deputies' decision on guilt, debates on public consultation, and the different punishment options. The chapter also highlights the influential intervention by Tron Barreur and the lack of unity within the Girondons. Chaos and controversy surround the trial as deputies vote on the fate of the king, with unexpected reversals and surprising votes. Finally, the podcast concludes with the decision to execute Louis XVI and teases upcoming episodes on his final weeks in prison and Spanish involvement in the trial.
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Quick takeaways
The National Convention voted unanimously to find King Louis XVI guilty of crimes against the people and aiding the enemies of France.
The proposal for a national referendum to determine the king's future was rejected, leading to a majority of deputies, including Montagnards, voting for death as the king's punishment.
Bertrand Barère played a significant role in shaping the debate and outcome of the trial, advocating for the king's immediate execution to strengthen the republic.
Deep dives
The King's Trial: Sentencing and Execution
After months of debate, the National Convention finally reached a verdict on the fate of King Louis XVI. The charges against the king were extensive, including crimes against the sovereignty of the people and aiding the enemies of France. The deputies voted on whether the king was guilty or innocent, with a unanimous decision that he was guilty. The second vote centered around the appeal to the people, which suggested a national referendum to determine the king's future. However, the proposal was rejected, leading to a third vote on the king's punishment. Despite the gyrondons being divided in their opinions, a majority of deputies, including prominent Montagnards, voted for death. The king's sentence was passed with a slim majority of one vote. The deputies later reconsidered the tally due to concerns about absent deputies and categorized conditional votes for death as votes in favor of regicide, resulting in a clearer majority in favor of execution. Finally, a vote on clemency was taken and rejected, sealing the king's fate.
The Impact of Individual Votes
The votes on the king's sentence were marked by divisions and contradictions among the deputies. Some, including prominent gyrondons, voted for death with conditions such as delayed execution or deliberations on possible clemency. Others outright rejected capital punishment and proposed alternative penalties like imprisonment or exile. The divisive nature of the gyrondons contributed to their setback, while the Montagnards showed a unified front in support of quick and uncompromising execution. Ultimately, the slim majority in favor of death prompted concerns about the representation and absence of deputies, leading to a recount that showed a clearer majority against clemency.
Barreir's Intervention and the Final Decision
Barreir played a significant role in shaping the debate and outcome of the king's trial. His influential intervention emphasized the need for the king's execution to strengthen the republic and eliminate royal superstition. Barreir's argument for immediate action resonated with many deputies, and the convention proceeded to vote on whether to delay the execution. The majority voted against clemency, solidifying the decision to carry out the death sentence. Although tensions and debates persisted, the final result reflected a clear majority in favor of the execution, ensuring the fateful end of King Louis XVI.
The Controversy of the Narrow Majority
While it is often mentioned that the king's fate was determined by a single vote, this oversimplification ignores the broader context. In reality, a decisive majority, including those who voted for death with conditions, supported the execution of Louis XVI. The recount clarified that the majority against clemency was substantial, displaying divisions within the Gironde faction and differing perspectives on the appropriate punishment. However, the final outcome still raised questions due to the slim margin and concerns about absent deputies. Nevertheless, the convention deemed the result valid, ensuring the death of the king.
Aftermath and Implications
The sentencing and imminent execution of King Louis XVI left an enduring impact on the revolution. While some remained steadfast in their beliefs and called for the king's immediate death, others debated the timing and potential for clemency, driven by concerns of war escalation and the martyrdom of the king. The divisions within the National Convention over the king's fate highlighted the broader ideological rifts and power struggles during this critical period. Ultimately, the stage was set for the guillotine to claim the life of the king, marking a turning point in the revolution and irrevocably shaping its future trajectory.
With problems besetting the young republic, the Convention had to end the contentious trial of Louis XVI. How would the trial proceed? Who would determine the King's guilt and punishment? When would the judgment take effect? These are just some of the many questions the deputies grappled with as they dealt with the King's conviction and sentencing.
Exclusive Bonus Content (Episode Extras)
1.48.1 Spanish efforts to influence the trial of King Louis XVI - This episode explores the Convention's votes on the King's guilt, the proposed appeal to the people, and the punishment for Louis XVI. It also introduces the important revolutionary Bertrand Barère.
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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!