DANTON, GEORGE JACQUES

(1759-94), Fr. revolutionary leader who did most to bring about Reign of Terror under which he fell; became prominent as pres. of Cordeliers Club, extreme body; probably led march of people to Tuileries; app. Minister of Justice, and afterwards became member of Mountain in Convention; condemned by Girondists for allowing ma acre in prisons; member of Committee of Public Safety and voted execution of king; fanned rage of populace against Girondists; made Committee of Public Safety supreme and army efficient. ‘Terror’ now pa ed out of D.’s control. At first D. was protected by Robes pierre, but he was subsequently abandoned, and guillotined with other ‘moderates.’