The Reign of Terror was a period during the French Revolution from 1793 to 1794 when the revolutionary government took extreme measures to eliminate perceived enemies. Led by the Committee of Public Safety and figures like Maximilien Robespierre, the government executed thousands of people, including many who were once allies. The guillotine became a symbol of this violent time, as it was used for public executions. During the Reign of Terror, fear and paranoia spread throughout France. Citizens were encouraged to report anyone suspected of being disloyal, leading to widespread distrust. Ultimately, the Reign of Terror ended with the fall of Robespierre, marking a shift towards more moderate governance in the aftermath of the revolution.