Question

read this excerpt from a speech given by maximilien robespierre to the convention on february 5, 1794. \subdue libertys enemies by terror, and you will be right, as founders of the republic. the government of the revolution is the despotism of liberty against tyranny.... and is it not to strike the heads of the proud that lightning is destined?\ what was robespierres main reason for making these statements? to convince the committee of public safety to spare his life to justify the execution of perceived enemies of the revolution to persuade the convention that an army was needed to defeat foreign invaders to argue for the abolition of the monarchy in favor of a republic

Explanation:

Robespierre's statement about subduing liberty's enemies by terror and the government of revolution being the despotism of liberty against tyranny suggests he is justifying harsh measures against those opposed to the revolution. The idea of striking down the "heads of the proud" implies eliminating key opponents. This aligns with justifying the execution of those seen as enemies of the revolution.

Answer:

to justify the execution of perceived enemies of the revolution