Bertrand Barere Quotes
- French Politician
- France
- 1755 - 1841
Bertrand Barere was a French politician and revolutionary who played a significant role in the French Revolution. He was known for his radical views and fiery speeches, earning him the nickname “Anacreon of the Guillotine.” Barere was a member of the National Convention and the Committee…Read More
Bertrand Barere was a French politician and revolutionary who played a significant role in the French Revolution. He was known for his radical views and fiery speeches, earning him the nickname “Anacreon of the Guillotine.” Barere was a member of the National Convention and the Committee of Public Safety, where he advocated for the execution of King Louis XVI and other counter-revolutionaries. He also played a key role in the Reign of Terror, which resulted in thousands of executions. Barere’s most notable works include his speeches and writings, such as “The Death of Louis XVI” and “The Triumph of the Republic.” He later fell out of favor and was exiled, but returned to France after the fall of Napoleon. Despite his controversial actions, Barere remains a significant figure in French history and the legacy of the French Revolution.Read Less
Bertrand Barere was a French politician and revolutionary who played a significant role in the French Revolution. He was known for his radical views and fiery speeches, earning him the nickname “Anacreon of the Guillotine.” Barere was a member of the National Convention and the Committee of Public Safety, where he advocated for the execution of King Louis XVI and other counter-revolutionaries. He also played a key role in the Reign of Terror, which resulted in thousands of executions. Barere’s most notable works include his speeches and writings, such as “The Death of Louis XVI” and “The Triumph of the Republic.” He later fell out of favor and was exiled, but returned to France after the fall of Napoleon. Despite his controversial actions, Barere remains a significant figure in French history and the legacy of the French Revolution.
Bertrand Barere Career Highlights
- Barere began his career as a lawyer and was elected as a deputy to the National Convention in 1792.
- He was a member of the Committee of Public Safety, which was responsible for governing France during the Reign of Terror.
- Barere was a strong supporter of the Jacobin faction and played a crucial role in the execution of King Louis XVI.
- He was also involved in the creation of the Revolutionary Tribunal, which was responsible for trying and executing thousands of people during the Reign of Terror.
- In 1794, Barere was appointed as the President of the National Convention and played a key role in the downfall of Maximilien Robespierre, the leader of the Reign of Terror.
- After the fall of Robespierre, Barere was arrested and imprisoned for his involvement in the Reign of Terror. However, he managed to escape and went into hiding until the end of the Revolution.
- In 1795, Barere returned to politics and was elected to the Council of Five Hundred, where he served until 1797.
- He also served as a member of the Council of Ancients and the Tribunate, and was known for his support of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Key Contributions by Bertrand Barere
- Barere was a skilled orator and used his persuasive speaking skills to rally support for the Jacobin faction and the radical ideas of the French Revolution.
- He played a crucial role in the execution of King Louis XVI, which marked a turning point in the Revolution.
- Barere was a key member of the Committee of Public Safety, which was responsible for implementing radical policies and suppressing opposition during the Reign of Terror.
- He was also involved in the creation of the Revolutionary Tribunal, which was responsible for the mass executions of those deemed enemies of the Revolution.
- Barere’s role in the downfall of Maximilien Robespierre and the end of the Reign of Terror was significant in bringing about a more moderate phase of the Revolution.
What Sets Bertrand Barere Apart
- Barere’s eloquence and persuasive speaking skills set him apart from other politicians of his time. He was able to sway public opinion and rally support for his radical ideas.
- He was also known for his intelligence and quick thinking, which helped him navigate the complex political landscape of the French Revolution.
- Barere’s unwavering support for the Jacobin faction and his radical ideas made him a controversial figure, even among his fellow revolutionaries.
- Despite his involvement in the Reign of Terror, Barere managed to escape punishment and continued to play a role in French politics until his death in 1841.
Takeaways
- Bertrand Barere’s career highlights and key contributions highlight his significant role in the French Revolution.
- His persuasive speaking skills and unwavering support for radical ideas set him apart from other politicians of his time.
- Barere’s involvement in the Reign of Terror and his escape from punishment serve as a cautionary tale of the dangers of radicalism and the consequences of blindly following a cause.