James Adams on the French Revolution

When it comes to the events in France I am, in all honesty, torn. While I must admit that I understand the reasons for the revolution, and that France’s people are being oppressed; and while I hope that the French revolution will result in liberty, equity, and humanity, I must admit that I am hesitant to fully agree with the uprising.

In revolutions, the most fiery spirits and flighty geniuses frequently obtain more influence than men of sense and judgment; and the weakest man may carry foolish measures in opposition to wise ones proposed by the ablest. France is in great danger. I, for one, can only see this revolution ending in chaos, horror, and ultimate tyranny. (1)

By destroying those who oppress them, they have liberated themselves in a sense, yes; however, after having slaughtered their leaders, they will have no one to turn to. There will be no one to offer steady direction, and what they saw as oppression before will simply become a mob-like anarchy. There’s no question that they will annihilate and demolish the system they loathe; however, what will be built in the old regime’s place?

Mr. Jefferson