Glosaurus
The French Revolution

Tree of Liberty

Symbol of revolutionary ideals and hope.
The Tree of Liberty (Arbre de la Liberté) served as a symbol of freedom and the principles of the Enlightenment during the revolutionary period in France. It was often depicted as a tall tree, typically a poplar or oak, and became a common feature in public squares, where gatherings and celebrations could occur. While the Tree of Liberty represented the fight against tyranny and the struggle for individual rights, it also functioned as a physical space for citizens to convene and discuss political matters. The planting of such trees began in the early stages of the revolution and continued as a way to commemorate significant events, such as the fall of the Bastille on 14 July 1789, and to foster a sense of community and participation among the populace.
The Tree of Liberty was a symbol of the French Revolution, representing freedom and the new republican ideals that emerged during this period. Trees of Liberty were typically young, leafy trees (often Lombardy poplars or elms) planted in public squares and adorned with the tricolour cockade or ribbons. They served as gathering points for revolutionary activities, celebrations, and civic ceremonies, such as the Festival of the Federation held on 14 July 1790.

These trees gained popular significance and were seen as living embodiments of the principles fought for by the revolutionaries. The original idea of the Tree of Liberty was influenced by classical references and the Roman tradition of planting trees to symbolize liberty and victory. The symbolism extended to the official documents and songs (like the patriotic hymn "Ça ira") that became associated with the revolution.

Municipal leaders or revolutionary clubs often organized the planting ceremonies as community events to build unity and spread revolutionary fervor. The planting of these trees signified the overthrow of the old regime and the growth of a new society based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Inscriptions or plaques could be placed near the base of the trees detailing the achievements of the revolution or honouring fallen heroes.

Despite their symbolic value, Trees of Liberty occasionally became targets during periods of counter-revolutionary activity, particularly during the Thermidorian Reaction (27 July 1794) and the subsequent rise of the Directory. Opponents of the revolution would sometimes uproot or destroy the trees to signal their rejection of revolutionary changes and their desire to restore the monarchy.

Nonetheless, the practice of planting Trees of Liberty endured well beyond the revolutionary period, re-emerging during subsequent French uprisings and even during the revolutions of the 19th century. The trees, therefore, stand as lasting symbols of the ideals that the French Revolution aspired to, continuing to remind later generations of the struggle for freedom and equality.
Did you know?
  • The Tree of Liberty (Arbre de la Liberté) symbolized the principles of liberty and democracy during the French Revolution, becoming a recurring emblem as revolutionary fervor spread throughout France.
  • These trees were often planted in public squares and local communities (denoting civic pride and commitment to revolutionary ideals), and their planting ceremonies were lively events, often accompanied by music and speeches.
  • The tradition of planting a Tree of Liberty was borrowed from ancient Rome, where sacred trees stood as symbols of freedom and democracy, linking the revolutionary movement to a storied historical lineage.
  • Unlike traditionally cultivated trees, the Tree of Liberty was often a species like the birch or the oak, representing resilience and strength—the oak particularly evoking the idea of long-lasting national pride.
  • The height of some Trees of Liberty could reach 7-10 meters, turning into landmarks that united communities around ideals of freedom, equality, and fraternity.
  • Over time, many of these trees became targets for vandalism during periods of political unrest; for instance, during the rise of Napoleon, many Trees of Liberty were cut down or decayed as they fell out of favor with the ruling powers.