Slogan: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity

During the French Revolution, the slogan "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" (Liberté, égalité, fraternité) emerged as one of the most enduring mottoes. It encapsulated the primary aspirations of the revolutionaries. Initially coined by Maximilien Robespierre in 1790, the phrase succinctly embodied the principles that many revolutionaries sought to establish in the nascent French Republic.

Liberty referred to personal freedoms and political rights, signifying freedom from the absolutist monarchy. This notion promoted the idea that individuals should be free to act according to their own will, within the constraints of law. Revolutionary leaders sought to dismantle the feudal structures that restricted personal freedoms and enforce new legal frameworks that upheld civil liberties.

Equality denoted the abolishment of social hierarchies and privileges associated with the ancien régime. The revolutionaries aimed for the equal distribution of rights and opportunities, eliminating class distinctions that favored the nobility and clergy. The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (26 August 1789) was a significant document that enshrined this ideal, declaring that "men are born and remain free and equal in rights."

Fraternity encompassed the sense of brotherhood and solidarity among citizens. It urged people to support one another, fostering a communal spirit that transcended individualistic pursuits. This value was underpinned by mutual aid and the collective well-being of the populace. Revolutionary festivals and events often emphasized fraternity, symbolizing unity and the common bonds that connected all citizens of the republic.

The permeability of these ideals influenced various phases of the French Revolution. However, their interpretation and implementation varied, often leading to contradictions and conflicts within the revolutionary movement itself. Despite the challenges, "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" continued to resonate as an emblematic representation of the aspirations that fueled the revolution and its quest to create a more just and equitable society.

• The slogan 'Liberty, Equality, Fraternity' was popularized during the French Revolution, but its roots can be traced back to earlier Enlightenment ideas about human rights and social contracts.
• While 'Liberty' and 'Equality' were ideals widely embraced, 'Fraternity' aimed to promote a sense of unity and brotherhood that resonated particularly with the revolutionary fervor of the time.
• The slogan was officially adopted in 1790, but it became emblematic of the revolution due to its inclusion in documents and speeches made by leaders such as Maximilien Robespierre.
• The phrase served not only as a guiding principle for revolutionaries but also as a rallying cry that inspired other democratic movements around the world, from the 19th century revolutions in Europe to the struggles for civil rights in the 20th century.
• Interestingly, though the slogan is widely recognized, it was not used uniformly across all revolutionary factions, with some advocating for alternative phrases that emphasized different political goals.