"The secret of freedom lies in educating people, whereas the secret of tyranny is in keeping them ignorant."

A fervent advocate for the poor and for democratic institutions, Maximilien Robespierre rose to prominence during the French Revolution, becoming a leading member of the Committee of Public Safety. His relentless pursuit of virtue and equality, matched with a zealous belief in the righteousness of his cause, led to the Reign of Terror, where thousands were executed, including himself, in a tumultuous quest to purify the nation.