Louis de Saint-Just facts for kids
Louis Antoine Léon de Saint-Just (pronounced loo-EE an-TWAHN lay-OHN duh SAN-joost) was a very important person during the French Revolution. He was a close friend and helper of Robespierre. Saint-Just played a big role in the Reign of Terror, a time when many people were executed in France. Because of his strict beliefs and actions, some people called him the Angel of Death.
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Who Was Saint-Just?
Saint-Just was born in a small village in France in 1767. His family was not rich, but they were well-respected. He went to school and studied law. Even when he was young, he was very serious and had strong ideas about how society should work. He believed in fairness and justice for everyone.
Early Life and Education
Louis Antoine Léon de Saint-Just grew up in a town called Blérancourt. He was a bright student and went to college in Reims. He studied law there, which taught him a lot about rules and government. After college, he returned home and started writing. He was very interested in politics and how countries should be run.
Joining the Revolution
When the French Revolution began in 1789, Saint-Just was still quite young. He quickly became a strong supporter of the revolution's goals. He believed that France needed big changes to become a fairer country. He joined the Jacobin Club, a group of revolutionaries who wanted to create a republic. A republic is a country where citizens elect their leaders, instead of having a king.
Saint-Just's Role in Politics
Saint-Just became a very powerful speaker and writer. He was elected to the National Convention, which was the new government of France. He quickly became known for his strong speeches and his firm beliefs. He always spoke his mind, even if it was unpopular.
Working with Robespierre
Saint-Just became a close ally of Robespierre, another powerful leader in the Jacobin Club. They shared many of the same ideas about the revolution. Saint-Just was often called Robespierre's "right-hand man." He helped Robespierre make important decisions and write new laws. Together, they worked to create a new, more equal society in France.
The Committee of Public Safety
In 1793, Saint-Just joined the Committee of Public Safety. This committee was formed to protect the revolution from its enemies. It had a lot of power and made many important decisions. Saint-Just was one of the youngest members, but he was very influential. He helped lead the committee during a difficult time for France.
The Reign of Terror
The Reign of Terror was a period during the French Revolution when the government took extreme measures. They wanted to get rid of anyone who seemed to be against the revolution. Saint-Just played a key role in this period. He believed that strong actions were needed to save the revolution.
Why the Terror Happened
During the Reign of Terror, France was facing many threats. There were wars with other countries and rebellions inside France. The leaders of the revolution felt that they needed to be very strict to keep the country safe. They believed that anyone who disagreed with them was a danger to the new republic.
Saint-Just's Actions
Saint-Just was known for being very strict and firm. He helped create laws that led to the arrest and execution of many people. He believed that these actions were necessary to purify France and create a truly free society. His strong beliefs and actions earned him the nickname "Angel of Death." This name reflected his role in sending people to the guillotine, a machine used for executions.
Military and Downfall
Besides his political work, Saint-Just also served as a military leader. He helped organize the French army and improve its fighting spirit. He was known for being brave and inspiring soldiers.
Military Successes
Saint-Just traveled to the front lines of battles to motivate the soldiers. He helped the French army win important victories against their enemies. He was very good at making sure the army had what it needed to fight. His efforts helped France defend itself during the wars.
The End of Saint-Just
As the Reign of Terror continued, many people in France became tired of the executions. Even some revolutionaries started to fear Robespierre and Saint-Just. In July 1794, a group of politicians turned against them. Saint-Just and Robespierre were arrested. They were quickly put on trial and found guilty. On July 28, 1794, Saint-Just was executed by guillotine in Paris. He was only 26 years old.
Legacy
Saint-Just remains a complex figure in history. Some people see him as a dedicated revolutionary who truly believed in creating a better France. Others view him as a harsh and unforgiving leader who contributed to a period of great violence. His life shows how quickly power can change during a revolution.
Images for kids
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in 1785 Saint-Just wrote a monograph about Château de Coucy, a mediaeval castle with a donjon
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Saint-Just's home in Blérancourt is now a museum and tourist center.
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Entrance to the Committee of Public Safety. One day before the Insurrection of 31 May – 2 June Saint-Just became a member of the Committee.
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Order of the Revolutionary Tribunal condemning the Hébertists
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Battle of Fleurus (1794) by Jean-Baptiste Mauzaisse. Oil painting, Château de Versailles.
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Saint-Just and Robespierre at the Hôtel de Ville on the night of 9 to 10 Thermidor Year II. Painting by Jean-Joseph Weerts
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Terracotta bust of Saint-Just at the Musée Lambinet in Versailles.
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See also
In Spanish: Louis de Saint-Just para niños
