Maximilien RobespierreRobes·pierre, Max·i·mil·i·en /ˈrəʊbspɪər, ˌmæksəˈmɪliən/ (1758–94) one of the leaders of the French Revolution, famous for starting the reign of terror(1793–1794) during which thousands of people were executed (execute ) because they were believed to be enemies of the Revolution. He was later removed from power and killed by the guillotine.