4. Jacques-Pierre Brissot
Jacques Pierre Brissot had a background in law and literature before the French Revolution began. Like Robespierre, he was heavily influenced by the ethical precepts advocated by Jean-Jacques Rousseau. He was even imprisoned in the Bastille for a short period because his advocacy for penal reform was seen as incitement against the king and queen.
Upon his release, he joined the anti-slavery movement and, along with the American political theorist Thomas Payne, advocated for a republican form of government that allowed for representation of the people’s will. He even traveled to America while it was still forming its government; these trips undoubtedly influenced his political ideals.
After the French Revolution began, Brissot was elected to the National Convention and became the leader of the Girondins, a group that was despised by the powerful Robespierre. When the king was found guilty of treason, Brissot argued that his life should be spared so that France could retain him as a bargaining chip in foreign negotiations; he also believed that people should be allowed to vote on what the king’s fate would be.
During the Reign of Terror, Robespierre accused Brissot of counterrevolutionary activity, including but not limited to his stance on the king’s execution. He was also accused of being a spy. Like many others who Robespierre perceived as being a threat, Brissot was executed at the guillotine.