French statesman, one of the leading figures of the French Revolution. A Parisian lawyer, he became a leader of the Cordeliers early in the Revolution and gained popular favor through his powerful oratory. A member of the Commune of Paris, he helped set the stage for the August 1792, attack on the Tuileries and the overthrow of the monarchy. In the new republic, he became minister of justice and virtual head of the Provisional Executive Council. On March 30, 1794, Danton and his followers were charged with conspiracy to overthrow the government. The trial was a mockery, and Danton was guillotined. Manuscript DS, in French, signed “Danton,” one page both sides, 9.5 x 14.5, August 25, 1792. A certified copy of a decree by the National Assembly regarding the creation of a citizen’s infantry guard. The five article document reads, in part: “No citizen other than those whose name will be inscribed on the list entered in the archives will be allowed to form these companies. The formation of these companies will be identical to that prescribed by decree of the seventeenth of the current month. Citizens having already received arms from the nation must bring those arms when they come to form those companies. These companies will be part of the same division of the National Guard.” In fine condition, with previous folds, a pencil notation to top edge, and some scattered mild toning. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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