1759-1794. French revolutionary. Originally a 
lawyer, during the early years of the 
Revolution he was one of the most influential 
people in Paris. He organized the rising 10 
Aug 1792 that overthrew the monarchy, roused 
the country to expel the Prussian invaders, 
and in Apr 1793 formed the revolutionary 
tribunal and the Committee of Public Safety, 
of which he was the real leader until July. 
Thereafter he lost power, and when he 
attempted to recover it, he was arrested and 
guillotined.