Definition

Proper noun A French revolutionary leader, a key figure in the French Revolution. He is historically noted for his role in storming the Bastille, his initial support for executing King Louis XVI, and his own eventual execution by guillotine during the Reign of Terror after opposing its excesses.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Danton was a powerful and charismatic orator.
  • The historian compared the strategies of Danton and Robespierre.
  • A famous statue of Danton stands in Paris.

Advanced Usage

• "A Danton-esque figure": Used to describe a political figure who is a fiery, populist orator and a man of action, often with a complex or tragic end.
  • The rebel leader was a Danton-esque figure, rallying the crowds with his thunderous speeches.

Variants and Related Words

• Dantonist (noun, historical): A supporter or follower of Georges Danton.
  • The Dantonists were purged during the Terror.

Synonyms

• Revolutionary, Jacobin (specific to the period), tribune (in the sense of a popular leader and speaker).

Related Phrases and Contexts

• The French Revolution: Danton's life and actions are inseparable from this historical event.
• The Reign of Terror: The period during which Danton was executed.
• The Committee of Public Safety: The revolutionary government body with which Danton was associated.

Noun

1. French revolutionary leader who stormed the Paris bastille and who supported the execution of Louis XVI but was guillotined by Robespierre for his opposition to the Reign of Terror (1759-1794)