Maximilien Robespierre

On May 6, 1758, Maximilien Robespierre was born in Artois, France. He was a bright young man who followed in his father's legal studies in Paris. He campaigned and published articles in favor of the commoners and against the ruling class's authority after being chosen by the commoners to serve as a deputy of the Third Estate in 1789.

As the National Assembly's spokesperson, supported the Declaration of Human and Citizen Rights. France was dealing with several issues in 1793, including food riots in Paris, military threats from other European nations, the British taking control of the French Mediterranean base at Toulon, and a peasant uprising in the southwest.

The Committee of Public Safety, which was established by the Montagnards in the wake of the Girondins' defeat in June 1793, served as de facto France's executive branch during the period of the Revolution known as the Reign of Terror. Even yet, he was up against formidable obstacles like the Royal Navy putting down the movement. He was adamant about ruling as he stood tall in front of the safety committee.

Maximilien Robespierre and his 22 supporters were executed on July 28, 1794, and he is remembered as a supporter of the weak, persecuted, and destitute.

Lifespan: May 6, 1758 – July 28, 1794