What was the roll of Committee Public Safety during French Revolution?

Committee of Public Safety was a government body established during the French Revolution. Initially created in 1792 to oversee the Revolution's security and defense during a time of national crisis, the Committee eventually became the de facto government of France during the Reign of Terror.

Key Roles and Functions of the Committee of Public Safety:

1. National Defense: The committee played a crucial role in organizing and supervising French military efforts against the invading forces of other European countries. It made critical decisions regarding troop deployment, military strategies, and fortifications to protect the country.

2. Internal Security: The Committee focused on maintaining internal stability by suppressing counterrevolutionary activities, rebellions, and perceived threats to the Revolution. They established various security measures, including the Revolutionary Tribunal, to track and punish individuals suspected of treason or disloyalty.

3. Centralized Power: The Committee centralized power and took control of different aspects of French society. They established policies and regulations related to education, religion, press freedom, and economic affairs. The committee's authority extended over all government branches, including the legislative and executive bodies.

4. Reign of Terror: During the height of the Revolution, the Committee implemented a period known as the Reign of Terror. In an attempt to eliminate potential opposition, the committee arrested, imprisoned, and executed thousands of individuals suspected of being counterrevolutionaries or enemies of the Revolution.

5. Maximilien Robespierre's Influence: The Committee of Public Safety was particularly influential during the leadership of Maximilien Robespierre. As a member and eventually the head of the Committee, Robespierre spearheaded the radical policies that characterized the Reign of Terror, believing it necessary to secure the country and advance the revolutionary ideals.

6. Fall and Legacy: The Committee eventually lost power in the Thermidorian Reaction, a period marked by a backlash against the radical policies and violence of the Reign of Terror. Many members of the Committee, including Robespierre, were arrested, tried, and executed.

In summary, the Committee of Public Safety was a powerful body during the French Revolution that played critical roles in national defense, internal security, centralization of power, and implementing radical measures during the Reign of Terror. Its actions and decisions had a significant impact on the course and outcome of the French Revolution.