Thermidorian Reaction facts for kids

The Thermidorian Reaction was a major event during the French Revolution. It was like a sudden change in power, also known as a coup d'état, that happened against the leaders of the Jacobin Club. These leaders had been very powerful, especially through a group called the Committee of Public Safety.

This change began when the National Convention, which was the main government body, voted to remove and execute Maximilien de Robespierre, Louis Antoine de Saint-Just, and other important members of the revolutionary government. This event marked the end of the Reign of Terror, which was the most extreme and violent part of the French Revolution.

The name "Thermidorian" comes from the date it happened: 9 Thermidor Year II. This date was July 27, 1794, according to the special calendar used during the French Revolution.

What is a Thermidorian Reaction?

Today, the phrase "Thermidorian Reaction" is used to describe a situation where a very strict or oppressive government is overthrown. But instead of things getting better, the new government that takes over becomes even more controlling or harsh.

This term comes from the French Revolution itself. During that time, the old system of a monarchy (where a king or queen ruled) was removed. It was replaced by several different governments, and some of them became more and more strict. One of these governments even changed the names of the months and renumbered the years because they wanted to move away from old traditions. One of the summer months was called Thermidor. Because this important change happened in that month, it was named the Thermidorian Reaction.

Images for kids

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  Gendarme Charles-André Merda shooting at Maximilien Robespierre

See also

In Spanish: Reacción de Termidor para niños