During the French Revolution, the Committee of Public Safety was established as a powerful governing body with broad authority to safeguard the revolution. While the main goal of the committee was to protect the republic from external threats and internal counter-revolutionaries, it eventually led to a period of intense political repression and the infamous Reign of Terror. Here are some activities that could get a person in trouble with the Committee of Public Safety:
1. Counter-revolutionary activities: Any actions or statements criticizing or opposing the ideals of the revolution, such as advocating for the return of the monarchy or plotting against the newly formed republic, were deemed counter-revolutionary and punishable by the committee.
2. Expressing anti-republican sentiments: Publicly expressing opinions or making statements opposing the principles of the Republic, such as advocating for increased aristocratic privileges or supporting foreign powers against France, could lead to accusations of counter-revolutionary activities.
3. Engaging in royalist or religious plots: Engaging in conspiracies or plots against the revolutionary government, particularly ones involving the restoration of the monarchy or the intervention of foreign powers, were viewed as severe offenses that could bring severe consequences.
4. Suspected hoarding or speculation: During times of shortages and economic difficulties, people suspected of hoarding essential goods or engaging in speculation that exacerbated prices for personal gain risked being targeted by the Committee of Public Safety.
5. Engaging in suspicious activities: Any action or behavior that raised suspicions among the revolutionary authorities, such as secret gatherings, possession of illegal literature, or mysterious connections to counter-revolutionary networks, could lead to being investigated and potentially arrested.
6. Political opposition: Even though the revolution initially aimed to foster freedom and equality, anyone involved in opposing or challenging the dominant political factions or figures might be viewed as a threat and hence become a target for the Committee.
7. Accusations of immorality or corruption: Moral and ethical behavior was important during the revolution, and accusations of corruption, illicit activities, or an aristocratic lifestyle could lead to censorious attention from the Committee of Public Safety.
It is important to note that during the Reign of Terror, many individuals were falsely accused or condemned without proper evidence due to paranoia and political rivalries. The arbitrary nature of the Committee's actions caused substantial suffering and loss of life.
What sorts of activities could get a person in trouble with the Committee of Public Safety?
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