In 1792, the National assembly of France faced a dilemma. The moderate bourgeoisie elements of the Assembly wanted an end to the revolution, their aim of instituting a constitutional monarchy and limiting the powers of nobles have already been achieved. But growing unrest of the frustrated poor, who felt they had gained little, frightened the Assembly. And intense opposition and hostility from the elites who lost their privileges threatened to push the country into counter-revolution. These forces pulled on the government from above and below. And finally, there was the strain of the looming war with Austria and Prussia. Under these cumulative pressures the revolution became increasingly radical, leading ultimately to the Reign of Terror.

By the end of 1791, the Ancien Regime was effectively dismantled in France. The past two years of peaceful insurrection had given citizens freedom and liberty, and it had removed power and privilege from the...