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French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)

1.48 The Trial of the King Part III

Jan 16, 2023
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.
01:10:44

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

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.

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.

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