Liberty through the looking-glass: Comparative democratic backsliding in response to the French Revolution (1789-1806)

In response to the French Revolution, sections of British and American political society mobilized to curtail the influence of French-inspired radicals and enforce their own power. Between 1789 and 1806, a process of democratic backsliding occurred simultaneously in Britain and America with remarkably similar characteristics. This is notable for the British and American cases, whose political systems famously ensured liberty and tranquility. Elements of both nations remained extremely hostile to the French Revolution beginning with March on Versailles and promoted legislation seeking to directly undermine political opposition. The antipathy towards the Revolution fractured British and American society into conservatives, moderates, and radicals, who came into conflict with one another. The composition of these groups, their political programs, and their conflicts were similar across national boundaries. This era is notable for the quick change away from libertarian government to attempted state suppression and calls to mind modern democratic backsliding due to alleged foreign backed political opposition.