Context: A period of French history called The Reign of Terror occurred during the French Revolution. At least 300,000 people were arrested, with at least 17,000 being executed during this period. At least 35,000 people including the 17,000 already mentioned died due to state action (death in prison etc). Maximilien Robespierre is considered one of the most culpable for the violence.
Side note. The French flag was briefly red, white and blue.
The concept of reign of terror is used by the following regimes (Empire, Monarchy and Bourgeoisie) to counter the idea of revolution. The fake concept of “vendéen génocide” is still used by monarchist, far-right and catholic fundamentalist. The violence was not so much from the State than between people.
I was convinced by this work (in french): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCJsswh2McE
I was taught the same at school. Turn out, History has been made by ruling class and still forged by far-right (again). I recommend this video on the Reign of Terror. It’s in french, but the script and the sources are linked in description: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCJsswh2McE
Fun fact: Charles-Henri Sanson served as the chief executioner of Paris under both King Louis and Robespierre, and also was their executioner when their time came.
