Jean-François Rewbell facts for kids
Jean-François Reubell (born October 6, 1747 – died November 24, 1807) was an important French lawyer, diplomat, and politician during the time of the French Revolution. He played a big part in shaping France during a very turbulent period.
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Early Life and Revolutionary Beginnings
Jean-François Reubell was born in a town called Colmar, which is now in France. He became a successful lawyer there. In 1789, a major event happened in France: the Estates-General of 1789 was called. This was a big meeting where representatives from different parts of French society came together. Reubell was chosen to represent the "Third Estate" from his area. The Third Estate included most ordinary people, unlike the nobility or the clergy.
Making a Mark in the Assembly
When he joined the National Constituent Assembly, Reubell quickly became influential. He was known for his strong speeches and his deep knowledge of law. He was a big supporter of the changes brought by the Revolution. For example, he voted for reforms like the Civil Constitution of the Clergy, which changed how the church was organized in France. However, he did not support giving full citizenship rights to Jewish people living in Alsace at that time.
Changing Political Sides
In July 1791, King Louis XVI of France tried to escape France. After this, Reubell left the Jacobin Club, which was a very powerful political group. He then joined another group called the Feuillants. These groups had different ideas about how France should be governed.
Later, Reubell was elected to the Republic's National Convention in 1792. This was a new government that took over after the monarchy was abolished. He was sent to the Rhineland area, where he worked to bring those territories closer to France. He also strongly supported the trial of King Louis XVI.
Leading the Directory
Jean-François Reubell was involved in the events that led to the fall of Maximilien Robespierre, a powerful and controversial leader during the Revolution. After this, Reubell became a member of important committees, including the Committee of Public Safety.
Joining the Directory
In November 1795, Reubell was chosen to be a member of the Directory. This was a group of five leaders who governed France after the Reign of Terror. He even became its president in 1796. During his time in the Directory, he faced many challenges.
Key Actions as a Director
Reubell helped deal with attempts by people who wanted to bring back the monarchy. He also handled plots against the government. He played a key role in expanding France's borders, helping to add the Rhineland and parts of the Low Countries to the French Republic. He also supported the invasion of Switzerland and the creation of the Helvetic Republic, a new state allied with France.
Retirement from Public Life
In 1799, Reubell left the Directory. Some people blamed him for France's military defeats that year against other European countries. After Napoleon Bonaparte took power in 1799, Reubell retired from public life. He passed away in his hometown of Colmar.
