The Rest Is History 503. The French Revolution: Bloodbath in Paris (Part 1)
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Oct 13, 2024 In a gripping exploration of revolutionary fervor, the chaotic atmosphere of the Champ de Mars unfolds as Parisian demonstrators demand the removal of King Louis XVI. Blood spills as the National Guard clashes with an agitated mob, leading to tragic consequences. The podcast delves into the king's failed escape and the rising radicalism threatening the monarchy. It highlights pivotal moments in the struggle between revolutionary factions and the complexities shaping the tumultuous path of France toward liberty and chaos.
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Shifting Tone of Bastille Day
- The 1791 Bastille Day hymn, written by François-Joseph Gossec and Marie-Joseph Chénier, was a stark departure from the previous year's celebratory Te Deum.
- The hymn's lyrics, filled with imagery of tyrants and oppression, reflected the growing discontent with the monarchy.
Varennes' Impact on Public Opinion
- Louis XVI's attempted escape to Varennes and his letter denouncing the revolution drastically shifted public opinion against him.
- The press, which once portrayed him favorably, now labeled him a traitor and coward.
Cordeliers Club's Republican Push
- The Cordeliers Club, with members like Camille Desmoulins, Jean-Paul Marat, and Georges Danton, advocated for a republic after Louis XVI's flight.
- They bombarded the National Assembly with petitions demanding the monarchy's removal.