In this podcast, the aftermath of the French Revolution is explored, including winners and losers of the events on August 10, 1792. It delves into the rise of Danton and the formation of the New National Convention. The podcast also discusses power struggles and divisions in Paris, as well as the reactions of Marseille and Avignon to the revolution.
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Quick takeaways
Reforms enacted after the Second Revolution targeted counter-revolutionaries and the Catholic Church, leading to immediate consequences.
The insurrectionary commune, backed by the radical Jacobin factions, gained significant power and influence, forcing the Gironde-dominated assembly to relinquish power.
The split between the Girondean faction and the radicals of Paris weakened the former and gave the insurrectionary commune mastery over Paris.
Deep dives
The Assembly's Power and Reforms
The legislative assembly enacted a series of reforms after the Second Revolution, taking advantage of the removal of the king's veto. They targeted counter-revolutionaries abroad and at home, passing harsh laws against emigres, confiscating their property, and targeting both constitutional and non-constitutional priests. They also passed laws regarding the nationalization of communal property and abolishing signorial rights. These reforms had immediate consequences, especially in the confrontation with the Catholic Church and the clergy.
The Rise of the Insurrectionary Commune
The insurrectionary commune, backed by the radical Jacobin factions, gained significant power and influence after the Second Revolution. It formed a new executive council led by Danton, who became a major influencer over the war, foreign affairs, and justice portfolios. The commune pressured the assembly to dissolve itself and call for elections of a new national convention, forcing the Gironde-dominated assembly to relinquish power to a body that was more in line with the radical interests.
Power Struggles and Chaos in Paris
Paris was in a state of chaos after the Second Revolution, with various factions vying for power. The assembly, the commune, and the city's sections all sought to exert their authority. The assembly faced challenges from the commune, which controlled Paris and dictated policies to the assembly. The city's sections also wielded significant power and demanded that their desires be respected. The power struggle intensified divisions between the Girondins and the Montagnards, setting the stage for further conflicts within the Jacobin faction.
Impact of the Split between Girondeans and Radicals
The split between the Girondean faction and the radicals of Paris after the insurrection on the 10th of August had significant consequences. Firstly, the Girondeans lost their connection with the radical sections of the city, losing the support of the revolutionary populace. This made them vulnerable to the people's wrath in a time of unrest and threats to the nation. Secondly, the split weakened the Girondeans' position against the newly established insurrectionary commune. The assembly tried to assert its authority but gradually became subordinate to the commune, with the commune gaining mastery over Paris. Thus, the assembly and the Girondean faction experienced mixed outcomes from the events of the 10th of August.
Rise of the Insurrectionary Commune and Robespierre's Involvement
The insurrectionary commune emerged as the clear winner from the events of the 10th of August. It successfully seized power and established its own agenda. Led by Montagnard Jacobins and members of revolutionary clubs, the commune aimed to secure the nation's safety and organize the defense of Paris against perceived enemies of the revolution. Robespierre, although not directly involved in the insurrection itself, actively supported the commune's cause and championed its policies. His involvement increased his popularity within the revolutionary cohorts of Paris and weakened the credibility and influence of the legislative assembly dominated by the Girondeans. Robespierre's actions ultimately led to a final split within the Jacobin club.
In the aftermath of the revolution on 10 August 1792, multiple winners and losers emerged. This episode explores those individuals, factions, and institutions that rise to power, and those which lose everything.
Exclusive Bonus Content (Episode Extras)
1.37.1 - Unfit for the Throne - Historian Bertha Gardiner explains her reasonings why Louis' position on the throne was untenable and why the French people believed the King was unfit to rule.
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About
Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon is a podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of our history. By unpacking both the experiences of contemporaries and the conclusions of historians, Grey History seeks to explore 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 on Revolutionary France? You'll love this!
