All culture wars involve a clash of symbols. Symbols say a lot with a little. All it takes is a piece of cloth or an extraordinary object to transmit a world of ideas. They convey identity, impact and mood. One sinister symbol, appearing in the riots and disturbances, is the guillotine. In picking this device, … Read more
The most terrifying time during revolutions is when revolutionaries turn upon their own. It is a sign that the movement is radicalizing, creating insecurity in which no one feels safe. Even the most faithful servants of liberal causes suddenly find themselves targeted, despite having conceded, facilitated and supported those who work to overthrow the establishment. … Read more
From 1793 to 1800, the region of Fougères, in Northeast France, was the scene of the epic struggle of the Chouans. The Chouans were peasants who rose up against the French Revolution in defence of the Monarchy and the Church. One winter’s night in 1795, a column of soldiers of the revolutionary Republic was making … Read more
