The period in the history of France known as the Reign of Terror lasted from 1793 to 1794. It was a crucial phase of the French Revolution characterized by intense political and social upheaval. The Reign of Terror was marked by widespread violence, repression, and executions as the revolutionary government sought to consolidate its power and eliminate perceived threats.

The Reign of Terror can be understood in the following key points:

The Background:
- The French Revolution began in 1789 with the aim of transforming France from an absolute monarchy to a democratic republic.
- The revolution initially saw the overthrow of King Louis XVI and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.
- However, political divisions and economic hardships led to radicalization, with factions like the Jacobins gaining influence.

The Committee of Public Safety:
- In 1793, the Committee of Public Safety was established as a revolutionary government body with exceptional powers to deal with internal and external threats.
- Maximilien Robespierre emerged as a prominent leader within the Committee and played a central role in the Reign of Terror.

Repression and Executions:
- The Committee of Public Safety implemented a policy of repression to maintain control and eliminate counter-revolutionary elements.
- Thousands of people were arrested, imprisoned, and executed during this period, often without fair trials.
- The guillotine became the symbol of the Reign of Terror, with prominent figures like King Louis XVI, Queen Marie Antoinette, and Robespierre himself being executed.

Suspension of Civil Liberties:
- Civil liberties were suspended during the Reign of Terror as the government sought to suppress dissent and consolidate its power.
- The Revolutionary Tribunal was established to expedite trials, and laws were passed to suppress counter-revolutionary activities and promote revolutionary values.

End of the Reign of Terror:
- The Reign of Terror eventually lost support as people grew weary of the violence and repression.
- Robespierre's increasing radicalism and his attempt to create a new religion called the Cult of the Supreme Being alienated many.
- In July 1794, Robespierre was arrested and executed, marking the end of the Reign of Terror.

Impact:
- The Reign of Terror left a lasting impact on France and its revolution.
- It highlighted the dangers of radicalization and the potential for violence in revolutionary movements.
- The period also led to a backlash against the revolution, with a more conservative government taking over and eventually leading to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte.

In conclusion, the Reign of Terror refers to the period from 1793 to 1794 during the French Revolution when the Committee of Public Safety implemented a policy of repression, leading to widespread violence and executions. It was a crucial and tumultuous phase in French history that had a significant impact on the course of the revolution and subsequent events.