French Revolution and the Reign of Terror

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to the French Revolution and the events leading up to and during the Reign of Terror.

Declaration of Pilnitz

A document issued in 1791 calling for European monarchies to restore the monarchy in France, viewed as an invasion threat by French revolutionaries.

Sans-culottes

French commoners who were identified by not wearing the silk knee-breeches (culottes) which were symbols of wealth, signifying their lower social status.

Girondins

A moderate political faction during the French Revolution that sought to keep the King alive and supported the war against France's neighbors.

Maximilien Robespierre

A leading figure of the French Revolution and head of the Committee of Public Safety, known for his role in the Reign of Terror and efforts to 'purify' the Revolution.

Reign of Terror

A period during the French Revolution characterized by extreme political repression, mass executions, and the rise of the Committee of Public Safety.