Who was Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles?

Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles (September 20, 1759 – April 5, 1794) was a French judge, freemason, and politician who played a significant role during the French Revolution. He served as President of the National Convention twice and was a member of the Committee of Public Safety, a powerful executive body during the Reign of Terror.

What was Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles's family background?

Hérault de Seychelles came from a noble and well-known family. His grandfather was René Hérault, who served as Lieutenant General of Police of Paris, a key administrative role responsible for public order and security in the capital. His great-grandfather was Jean Moreau de Seychelles, who held the important position of Controller-General of Finances, managing the state's treasury, and notably gave his name to the Seychelles archipelago. He was also a cousin of the Duchess of Polignac, a close confidante of Queen Marie Antoinette, highlighting his connections to the French aristocracy.

What is the debated aspect of Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles's paternal lineage?

While some historical accounts consider René Hérault his grandfather, most authors suggest his biological grandfather was Marshal of France Louis Georges Érasme de Contades. This is due to an alleged affair between Contades and Hérault's grandmother, Hélène Moreau de Seychelles, during her marriage to René Hérault. Hérault's father, Jean-Baptiste Martin Hérault de Seychelles, died at the Battle of Minden while serving under Marshal Contades.

What were Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles's early legal and political positions?

Hérault de Seychelles began his career as a lawyer at the Châtelet of Paris, the city's primary civil and criminal court. He advanced to become King's Advocate at the Châtelet and, with support from influential circles, was appointed Advocate General at the prestigious Parlement of Paris, a high judicial office. Later, he served as a judge in Paris and as *Commissaire du Roi* (King's Commissioner) in the *Cour de cassation*, the highest court of appeal.

Was Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles involved in Freemasonry?

Yes, Hérault de Seychelles was an active freemason. He was a member of the Les Neuf Soeurs lodge, a prominent Parisian lodge known for its intellectual and Enlightenment-era members, from its establishment in 1776.

What literary works did Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles author?

Hérault de Seychelles was also a writer. In 1785, he published *La visite à Buffon, ou Voyage à Montbard*, an account of his visit to the renowned naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon. After his death, his philosophical work *Théorie de l'ambition* was published.

How did Hérault de Seychelles participate in the early stages of the French Revolution?

Despite his noble background, Hérault de Seychelles embraced revolutionary ideals early on. He participated in the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, a pivotal event symbolizing the overthrow of royal authority. In December 1790, he was appointed a judge in Paris, marking his direct involvement in the new revolutionary judicial system.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's role during his mission to Alsace in 1791?

From late January to April 1791, Hérault de Seychelles undertook a mission to Alsace. His objectives were to restore order following a period of civil unrest and to ensure the implementation of the Civil Constitution of the Clergy, a controversial law that reorganized the Catholic Church in France. During this mission, he faced threats to his life.

To which legislative bodies was Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles elected?

Hérault de Seychelles was elected as a representative for Paris to the Legislative Assembly, one of the revolutionary governments. Subsequently, he was elected as a deputy to the National Convention, which replaced the Legislative Assembly and held supreme power during the most radical phase of the Revolution.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's political alignment within the National Convention?

Within the National Convention, Hérault de Seychelles aligned himself with the most radical faction, known as the extreme left. This political positioning placed him among the Montagnards, who advocated for more extreme measures during the Revolution.

What significant report did Hérault de Seychelles present as a member of the diplomatic committee?

On June 11, 1793, while serving on the diplomatic committee, Hérault de Seychelles delivered a significant report that declared the nation to be in danger. This declaration was a crucial step in mobilizing national resources and justifying extraordinary measures during the ongoing wars and internal conflicts of the Revolution.

What role did Hérault de Seychelles play during the 10 August 1792 insurrection?

Following the insurrection of August 10, 1792, which led to the suspension of the monarchy, Hérault de Seychelles collaborated closely with Georges Danton, a leading figure of the Revolution. On September 2, 1792, he was elected president of the Legislative Assembly, presiding over a critical period of transition.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's stance on the execution of King Louis XVI?

Although Hérault de Seychelles was on a mission in the *département* of Mont Blanc during the trial of King Louis XVI, he communicated his support for the king's execution. This stance aligned him with the radical factions advocating for the abolition of the monarchy.

On what occasions did Hérault de Seychelles serve as president of the National Convention?

Hérault de Seychelles presided over the National Convention on two notable occasions: first, on June 2, 1793, during the tumultuous events leading to the expulsion of the Girondins; and second, on August 10, 1793, the anniversary of the monarchy's fall, which celebrated the adoption of the new Constitution of 1793.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's contribution to the French Constitution of 1793?

Hérault de Seychelles played a key role in the creation of the French Constitution of 1793. Working alongside Louis de Saint-Just, he served as one of the principal authors and drafters of this document, often referred to as the Constitution of The Mountain. However, this constitution was never implemented due to the ongoing revolutionary crisis.

When was Hérault de Seychelles elected to the Committee of Public Safety, and what was his primary focus?

Hérault de Seychelles was elected to the Committee of Public Safety on June 13, 1793. Within this powerful committee, which effectively governed France during the Reign of Terror, his main area of responsibility was diplomacy.

What accusations were made against Hérault de Seychelles in December 1793?

In December 1793, Hérault de Seychelles faced serious accusations, including collusion with foreign agents, which was tantamount to treason. These charges were notably brought forward by Bourdon de l'Oise, and his aristocratic background was also cited as a reason for suspicion.

How did Hérault de Seychelles respond to the accusations of treason?

Faced with accusations of treason, Hérault de Seychelles offered his resignation from the Committee of Public Safety. However, his resignation was not accepted by the committee, indicating that he remained under scrutiny.

What further accusations did Hérault de Seychelles face in the spring of 1794?

In the spring of 1794, Hérault de Seychelles was subjected to additional accusations, including collusion with counter-revolutionaries. He also became entangled in the political scandal surrounding the dissolution of the East India Company.

With whom was Hérault de Seychelles tried and executed?

Hérault de Seychelles was tried by the Revolutionary Tribunal and condemned to death alongside prominent figures such as Georges Danton, François Joseph Westermann, Camille Desmoulins, and Pierre Philippeaux. This group represented a significant faction within the revolutionary government.

On what date was Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles executed?

Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles was executed by guillotine on April 5, 1794. This date corresponds to the 16th Germinal in the Year II of the French Republican Calendar, a system of timekeeping used during the Revolution.

In which fictional works does Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles appear?

Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles is featured as a character in literary works that explore the French Revolution. He appears in Susanne Alleyn's novel *A Far Better Rest*, which reimagines Charles Dickens's *A Tale of Two Cities*, and in Hilary Mantel's historical novel *A Place of Greater Safety*.

What is the significance of the portrait of Hérault de Seychelles by François Hubert Drouais mentioned in the text?

The text references a portrait of Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles painted by François Hubert Drouais when Hérault was just four years old. This artwork provides an early visual representation of the historical figure.

What was the role of Jean Moreau de Seychelles in the family lineage of Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles?

Jean Moreau de Seychelles was the great-grandfather of Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles. He held the influential position of Controller-General of Finances in the mid-18th century and is historically noted for giving his name to the Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean.

How did Hérault de Seychelles's connection to the Duchess of Polignac influence his early career?

Hérault de Seychelles's familial connection as a cousin to the Duchess of Polignac, a close friend and confidante of Queen Marie Antoinette, proved beneficial to his early career. Associates of the Polignac family introduced him to the queen, who then actively supported his appointment to the prestigious position of Advocate General at the Parlement of Paris.

What was the context of Hérault de Seychelles's mission to Alsace in 1791, beyond restoring order?

Hérault de Seychelles's mission to Alsace in 1791 involved not only restoring order but also enforcing the Civil Constitution of the Clergy. This law was a significant attempt by the revolutionary government to subordinate the Catholic Church in France to state control, leading to considerable resistance and division.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's role on June 2, 1793, during the attack on the Girondins?

On June 2, 1793, a critical day when the National Convention was purged of Girondin deputies, Hérault de Seychelles was serving as its president. During this tumultuous event, he attempted to de-escalate the situation by pleading for the revolutionary troops to retreat, though his efforts were unsuccessful.

What was the 'Acte constitutionnel' celebrated on August 10, 1793, and what was Hérault de Seychelles's role in it?

The 'Acte constitutionnel' celebrated on August 10, 1793, was the Constitution of 1793, also known as the Constitution of The Mountain. Hérault de Seychelles, alongside Louis de Saint-Just, was a key figure in drafting this constitution, which was intended to establish a more democratic republic but was never implemented due to the ongoing war and internal strife.

What was the specific nature of the diplomatic and military mission Hérault de Seychelles undertook from October to December 1793?

From October to December 1793, Hérault de Seychelles was engaged in a mission in Alsace that combined diplomatic responsibilities with military oversight. This mission was part of the broader effort to secure France's borders and internal stability during the Reign of Terror.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's political party affiliation?

Hérault de Seychelles was affiliated with The Mountain, a radical political faction during the French Revolution known for its strong support of centralized power and revolutionary measures.

What was the cause of Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles's death?

Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles died as a result of execution by guillotine, a common method of capital punishment during the French Revolution, particularly during the Reign of Terror.

What literary work did Hérault de Seychelles publish in 1785?

In 1785, Hérault de Seychelles published *La visite à Buffon, ou Voyage à Montbard*. This work documented his visit to the influential naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, at his estate in Montbard.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's role in the National Convention's declaration that the nation was in danger?

As a member of the diplomatic committee, Hérault de Seychelles presented a significant report on June 11, 1793, which formally declared the nation to be in danger. This declaration was a critical measure that allowed the government to implement extraordinary actions to defend the Republic.

What was the significance of Hérault de Seychelles's absence during the trial of Louis XVI?

Hérault de Seychelles was absent during the trial of Louis XVI because he was on a mission to organize the new *département* of Mont Blanc, a territory annexed by France during the Revolutionary Wars. Despite his absence from the trial itself, he communicated his support for the king's execution, aligning with the Convention's decision to abolish the monarchy.

What scandal was Hérault de Seychelles embroiled in during the spring of 1794?

In the spring of 1794, Hérault de Seychelles became entangled in a political scandal related to the dissolution of the French East India Company. This event was part of a broader period of political intrigue and accusations that led to his downfall.

What was the French Republican Calendar date for Hérault de Seychelles's execution?

The execution of Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles on April 5, 1794, occurred on the 16th Germinal in the Year II of the French Republican Calendar. This calendar was used during the Revolution to replace the Gregorian calendar and symbolize a break from the past.

What is the 'short description' provided for Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles?

The 'short description' accompanying the article identifies Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles as a 'French judge and politician (1759–1794)'.

What was the name of the lodge Hérault de Seychelles was a member of?

Hérault de Seychelles was a member of the Les Neuf Soeurs lodge, which was known for its association with prominent figures of the Enlightenment and the Revolution.

What was the name of the French court where Hérault de Seychelles made his debut as a lawyer?

Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles began his legal career as a lawyer at the Châtelet of Paris, which was the principal court of justice in Paris during the Ancien Régime.

What was the title of the philosophical work published posthumously by Hérault de Seychelles?

The philosophical work published posthumously by Hérault de Seychelles was titled *Théorie de l'ambition*.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's role in the mission to organize the *département* of Mont Blanc?

Hérault de Seychelles was dispatched on a mission to organize the newly established *département* of Mont Blanc, a territory annexed by France during the Revolutionary Wars. This task involved integrating the region into the French administrative and political system.

What was the name of the French court where Hérault de Seychelles served as *Commissaire du Roi*?

Upon his return from his mission in Alsace, Hérault de Seychelles was appointed *Commissaire du Roi* (King's Commissioner) in the *Cour de cassation*, the highest court of appeal in France at the time.

What was the context of Hérault de Seychelles's presidency of the Convention on August 10, 1793?

On August 10, 1793, Hérault de Seychelles presided over the National Convention during the celebration of the adoption of the *Acte constitutionnel*, also known as the Constitution of The Mountain. This date marked the anniversary of the storming of the Tuileries Palace and the effective end of the French monarchy.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's specific role in the drafting of the 1793 Constitution?

Hérault de Seychelles, working collaboratively with Louis de Saint-Just, played a crucial role as one of the primary writers and redactors of the French Constitution of 1793. This constitution, though never implemented, represented a significant attempt at establishing a radical democratic republic.

What was Hérault de Seychelles's age at the time of his execution?

Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles was 34 years old when he was executed by guillotine on April 5, 1794.

What is the significance of the portrait by Jean-Louis Laneuville mentioned in the infobox?

The infobox for Marie-Jean Hérault de Seychelles includes a portrait attributed to Jean-Louis Laneuville. This painting serves as a visual representation of the historical figure.

What were Hérault de Seychelles's two presidential terms in the National Convention?

Hérault de Seychelles held the position of President of the National Convention during two distinct periods: from August 8 to August 22, 1793, and earlier, from November 1 to November 15, 1792.

Who preceded and succeeded Hérault de Seychelles as President of the National Convention during his August 1793 term?

During his presidential term in August 1793, Georges Danton preceded Hérault de Seychelles as President of the National Convention, and Maximilien Robespierre succeeded him in the role.

Who preceded and succeeded Hérault de Seychelles as President of the National Convention during his November 1792 term?

In his earlier presidential term in November 1792, Élie Guadet preceded Hérault de Seychelles as President of the National Convention, and Henri Grégoire succeeded him.

Marie-jean H U00e9rault De S U00e9chelles Wiki: The Revolutionary Jurist: Marie-Jean Hérault de Séchelles and the French Republic

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Origins and Early Career

Noble Lineage and Influences

Marie-Jean Hérault de Séchelles was born in Paris on September 20, 1759, into a distinguished noble family. His lineage included significant figures such as his grandfather, René Hérault, who served as Lieutenant General of Police of Paris, and his great-grandfather, Jean Moreau de Séchelles, a Controller-General of Finances who lent his name to the Seychelles archipelago. Notably, his family connections extended to the influential Duchess of Polignac, a confidante of Queen Marie Antoinette, and Marshal Louis Georges Érasme de Contades. These connections, particularly through his mother's side and the patronage of Contades, facilitated his early career advancements.

Legal Acumen and Royal Patronage

Hérault de Séchelles commenced his career as a lawyer at the Châtelet of Paris. At the young age of twenty, he secured the prestigious position of King's Advocate due to the influence of the Duchess of Polignac. This appointment was further bolstered by royal patronage, leading to his advocacy for the prestigious Parlement of Paris. His legal profession did not preclude his literary pursuits; he published an account of his visit to the naturalist Comte de Buffon and authored the philosophical work Théorie de l'ambition posthumously.

Freemasonry and Early Revolutionary Ties

Beyond his legal and literary endeavors, Hérault was an active Freemason, joining the esteemed Les Neuf Sœurs lodge. Despite his aristocratic background, he became an early proponent of revolutionary ideals. His commitment to the cause was evident in his participation in the storming of the Bastille in July 1789. Subsequently, he was appointed as a judge in Paris and later served as Commissaire du Roi in the Cour de cassation, demonstrating his growing influence within the evolving political landscape.

Legislative Assembly and National Convention

Political Ascent

Hérault de Séchelles was elected as a deputy for Paris to the Legislative Assembly. His political trajectory continued upward as he was elected to the National Convention in September 1792. Within this powerful body, he aligned himself with the radical left wing, becoming a prominent voice in the revolutionary government.

Diplomatic and Organizational Roles

As a member of various committees, Hérault played a significant role in shaping revolutionary policy. He presented a notable report on August 11, 1793, declaring the nation to be in danger, a critical moment during the Revolution. His responsibilities also extended to organizational missions, including being sent to establish the new department of Mont Blanc. Although absent during the trial of King Louis XVI, he communicated his approval of the monarch's execution.

Key Missions and Responsibilities

Mission to Alsace

From October to December 1793, Hérault undertook a crucial diplomatic and military mission in Alsace. This assignment, aimed at restoring order and enforcing revolutionary decrees, placed him in a position of significant responsibility. However, his activities and perceived leniency during this mission later contributed to him becoming an object of suspicion among his colleagues on the Committee of Public Safety.

Drafting the 1793 Constitution

Hérault de Séchelles was instrumental in drafting the French Constitution of 1793, often referred to as the "Constitution of the Mountain." He collaborated with Louis de Saint-Just on this foundational document of the First French Republic. Although this constitution was decreed and presented for popular acceptance, it was ultimately never implemented due to the ongoing revolutionary turmoil and the subsequent establishment of the provisional government.

The Reign of Terror

Committee of Public Safety

Hérault was elected to the powerful Committee of Public Safety on June 13, 1793. In this capacity, he was deeply involved in the governance of France during the most intense phase of the Revolution. His primary focus within the committee was diplomacy, though his mission to Alsace and his aristocratic background led to growing suspicions about his loyalty and commitment to the revolutionary cause.

Accusations and Downfall

The suspicions surrounding Hérault escalated in the winter of 1793-1794. He was accused of collusion with foreign agents and counter-revolutionaries, charges that amounted to treason. The scandal involving the dissolution of the East India Company further implicated him. These accusations, coupled with his perceived political missteps, sealed his fate.

Trial and Execution

Condemnation by the Revolutionary Tribunal

In the spring of 1794, Hérault de Séchelles faced the Revolutionary Tribunal. He was tried alongside prominent figures such as Georges Danton and Camille Desmoulins. The charges against him were severe, leading to a guilty verdict and a death sentence.

Fate on 5 April 1794

Marie-Jean Hérault de Séchelles was executed by guillotine on April 5, 1794 (16 Germinal, Year II in the French Republican Calendar). His execution marked the end of a tumultuous political career, highlighting the volatile nature of the French Revolution and the perilous path of those involved in its leadership.

Literary and Scholarly Works

Key Publications

Hérault de Séchelles contributed to literature and political discourse through several works:

1792 – Pétition à l'Assemblée Nationale, du 24 août 1792, l'an 4e de la liberté
1793 – Constitution républicaine, décrétée par la Convention nationale de France, en 1793 et présentée à l'acceptation du peuple français
1890 – Voyage à Montbard
1907 – Oeuvres littéraires

Fictional Portrayals

Hérault's dramatic life and involvement in the French Revolution have led to his inclusion in notable works of historical fiction:

Appears in A Far Better Rest by Susanne Alleyn.
Features as a supporting character in A Place of Greater Safety by Hilary Mantel.

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References

Dictionnaire universelle de la Franc-MaÃ§onnerie, page 360 (Marc de Jode, Monique Cara and Jean-Marc Cara, ed. Larousse, 2011).

A full list of references for this article are available at the Marie-Jean Hérault de Séchelles Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not historical or political advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research, academic consultation, or expert analysis of the French Revolution. Always consult primary sources and scholarly works for a comprehensive understanding of historical events and figures.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Revolutionary Jurist

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Origins and Early Career 🏛️

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Noble Lineage and Influences

⚖️ Legal Acumen and Royal Patronage

🤝 Freemasonry and Early Revolutionary Ties

Legislative Assembly and National Convention 📜

🗳️ Political Ascent

📢 Diplomatic and Organizational Roles

Key Missions and Responsibilities 🌍

📍 Mission to Alsace

✍️ Drafting the 1793 Constitution

The Reign of Terror 🔥

🛡️ Committee of Public Safety

⚖️ Accusations and Downfall

Trial and Execution 💀

⚖️ Condemnation by the Revolutionary Tribunal

⚰️ Fate on 5 April 1794

Literary and Scholarly Works 📖

📚 Key Publications

🎭 Fictional Portrayals

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Origins and Early Career

Noble Lineage and Influences

Legal Acumen and Royal Patronage

Freemasonry and Early Revolutionary Ties

Legislative Assembly and National Convention

Political Ascent

Diplomatic and Organizational Roles

Key Missions and Responsibilities

Mission to Alsace

Drafting the 1793 Constitution

The Reign of Terror

Committee of Public Safety

Accusations and Downfall

Trial and Execution

Condemnation by the Revolutionary Tribunal

Fate on 5 April 1794

Literary and Scholarly Works

Key Publications

Fictional Portrayals

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice