The French Revolution is a critical period in world history that helped shape the modern era. One of its most significant and terrorizing events was The Great Fear, a panic-driven social crisis that swept across France and played a crucial role in the revolution’s development. Educators aiming to teach students about The Great Fear should explore causes, manifestations, and lasting implications on the revolution as well as today’s world.
Causes of The Great Fear:
Economic hardship: Teaching about The Great Fear should begin by discussing the economic troubles experienced during that time. Rapid inflation and food scarcity led to increased tensions among the lower classes and contributed to widespread fear.
Political unrest: The burgeoning conflict between the monarchy and various factions within French society was another significant factor contributing to the panic. Students should understand the power struggle between these factions and recognize their influence on the country’s uncertain state.
Rumors: Gossip among different social classes served as fuel for The Great Fear. False information about bandits and invaders attacking towns and destroying crops were prevalent during this time.
Manifestations of The Great Fear:
Violence: During The Great Fear, many people participated in violent actions such as town raids, destruction of records, and harassment of officials or nobles thought to be contributing to economic issues.
Decision-making shift: As a result of widespread fear, local authorities lost control over some rural areas. Peasant populations took matters into their own hands by organizing themselves into groups for protection.
Rise of revolutionary sentiment: The Great Fear paved the way for stronger revolutionary sentiments among the population who witnessed the plight of their fellow citizens. Connection between economic problems, rumors, politics, and violence reinforced people’s beliefs in necessary change.
Lasting Implications:
August Decrees: Resulting from violence during The Great Fear period, National Assembly approved reforms known as the August Decrees, which abolished feudalism and implemented other legal changes. Students should analyze these legislative actions’ significance in the French Revolution.
Paris Commune: The events propelled the formation of Paris Commune, an insurrectionary Parisian government that challenged the monarchy’s authority and contributed to further radicalizing the revolution.
Contemporary Understanding: The Great Fear demonstrates how fear and misinformation can lead to widespread violence and social agitation. Helping students understand the implications will provide valuable insights into analyzing modern-day social and political movements.
