National Guard
Definition
The National Guard was a citizen militia established by the middle class in Paris (the bourgeoisie) during the French Revolution for their protection against royal forces.
Analogy
Think of your neighborhood watch group. They're ordinary citizens who volunteer to keep an eye out for any trouble and ensure everyone's safety. That's what the National Guard was like - except they were protecting themselves from royal soldiers instead of local burglars!
Related terms
Marquis de Lafayette: He was a French aristocrat and military officer who led many successful campaigns during both American and French Revolutions. He played a crucial role in establishing and leading the National Guard.
Jacobins: A political group that emerged during French revolution known for their radical ideas and actions. They had significant influence over National Guard at some point.
Reign of Terror: A period during French Revolution marked by mass executions of "enemies of revolution". During this time, control over National Guard shifted between different revolutionary factions.
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