robespierre
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Definition
- Proper noun:
- A key figure in the French Revolution: Robespierre refers to Maximilien Robespierre, a French lawyer and politician who was one of the most influential and controversial leaders during the French Revolution.
- Architect of the Reign of Terror: He is primarily known for his central role in the Committee of Public Safety and for promoting the period of mass executions known as the Reign of Terror.
- A symbol of revolutionary zeal and tyranny: His name is often used to represent the ideals of radical republicanism, as well as the potential for revolutionary movements to descend into violent authoritarianism.
Examples of Usage
- Proper noun:
- Robespierre's speeches were powerful calls for virtue and terror.
- Historians continue to debate the legacy of Robespierre.
- The fall of Robespierre marked the end of the most radical phase of the revolution.
Advanced Usage
- "to be a Robespierre": used metaphorically to describe someone who is an uncompromising, radical reformer or a puritanical figure willing to use severe measures to achieve ideological goals.
- In his ruthless pursuit of efficiency, the new manager was called a Robespierre by the staff.
Variants and Related Words
- Robespierrist (noun): A supporter or follower of Robespierre and his policies.
- The Robespierrists were purged after his execution.
- Robespierrian (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of Robespierre or his policies.
- The committee adopted a Robespierrian approach to dealing with dissent.
Synonyms
- Revolutionary leader
- Jacobin (specifically refers to a member of the political club he led, often used synonymously with his supporters)
Related Phrases and Concepts
- Reign of Terror: The period (1793-1794) during the French Revolution for which Robespierre is most infamous.
- Committee of Public Safety: The executive body governing France, which Robespierre dominated.
- The Incorruptible: A nickname given to Robespierre, highlighting his reputation for personal austerity and dedication to his revolutionary principles.
- Cult of the Supreme Being: The deistic state religion established by Robespierre in 1794.
Noun
- French revolutionary; leader of the Jacobins and architect of the Reign of Terror; was himself executed in a coup d'etat (1758-1794)