Comité de salut public

The Comité de salut public, or Committee of Public Safety, was a governing body during the French Revolution from 1793 to 1795. It was created to protect the revolution from internal and external enemies amid violent turmoil. Comprising a small group of leaders, it held broad powers to make rapid decisions, including martial law and executions. Its most infamous period was during the Reign of Terror, when thousands, including king Louis XVI, were executed. The committee's authority was central to maintaining revolutionary stability but also led to authoritarian rule and widespread repression.