The significance of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution, which lasted from 1793 to 1794, lies in its radical approach to dealing with perceived enemies of the revolution. Led by the Committee of Public Safety under Maximilien Robespierre, the Reign of Terror justified extreme measures, including widespread executions, primarily through the use of the guillotine. Approximately 16,000 people were executed, creating an atmosphere of fear and paranoia. This period aimed to protect the revolution and consolidate power, but it also led to internal dissent and ultimately resulted in the fall of Robespierre and a shift in revolutionary ideals.