The National Convention and The Jacobins

1. The National Convention and The Jacobins By Colin Hurrey

2. The National Convention • Established as a replacement for the Legislative Convention. • “Following the overthrow of the monarchy in August 1792, the newly elected Convention enshrined both executive and legislative functions” (Crook 264). • The National Convention lasted for three years. • During the rule of the convention, they declared France a republic, and abolished the monarchy.

3. Political Views of the Jacobins • Wanted France to be a republic. • Wanted the forced abdication of Louis XVI. • The Jacobins were dominant in politics during the French Revolution. • The Jacobins basic beliefs included patriotism, sacrifice, and citizenship. • Primary focus- republican education, social welfare, and an equality of social rights and obligations. • Support came from across the country. • Membership was dominated by artisans and shopkeepers. • There were about 6000 Jacobin clubs created during the terror.

4. Jacobins role in creating the Convention • When the Jacobins rose to power, the immediately called for a National Convention. • The Convention was mostly made up of the Jacobins, which included Marat, as well as Robespierre. • The Jacobins divided into two groups, the Girondins and the Mountain. • Each member would have had an equal vote. • Later, they would end up declaring France a republic, and abolishing the monarchy. Robespierre