The Guillotine and the Terror

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
6 questions
~12 mins
5 views0 downloads

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The Guillotine and the Terror

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to the Guillotine and the Reign of Terror

Source A: Excerpt from a Revolutionary pamphlet

'The guillotine is a symbol of justice, swift and equal for all. It has become a tool to rid France of tyranny and restore liberty.' Provenance: Published in 1793 by supporters of the Revolution.

1.
Explain the purpose of the guillotine during the French Revolution. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the views of supporters and critics regarding the use of the guillotine during the Terror.
[6 marks]
B

The Role of the Guillotine in the Reign of Terror

Source B: Memoir excerpt from a revolutionary judge

'The guillotine struck fear into the hearts of all, ensuring swift justice but at a terrible cost. It was necessary to protect the Revolution from its enemies.' Provenance: Written by a judge involved during the Terror, 1794.

1.
Outline the reasons why the guillotine was used so extensively during the Terror. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyze how the use of the guillotine affected public perceptions of justice during this period.
[6 marks]
C

Legacy of the Guillotine and the Terror

Source C: Modern historian's view

'The guillotine remains a powerful symbol of the French Revolution's promise and brutality. Its use marked a turning point in how justice was administered and remembered.' Provenance: Modern historical analysis, 2000s.

1.
Explain the lasting legacy of the guillotine in historical memory. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the historical views on the guillotine's role in revolutionary justice.
[6 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet