Quick Facts
Angel of Assassination. Killed Marat in his bath to save France — and lost her head for it.
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Life Journey
Charlotte Corday was born to a minor aristocratic family in Écorches, Normandy, France.
Charlotte begins her education at a convent school in Caen, where she receives a classical education.
Charlotte's parents pass away, and she is raised by her maternal grandparents.
Charlotte completes her education at the convent school and returns to her family in Caen.
Charlotte becomes deeply interested in the political changes brought about by the French Revolution.
Charlotte starts writing essays and letters expressing her political views and support for the Revolution.
Charlotte moves to Caen to live with her cousin, Marie-Françoise de Tourneux, where she continues her political activism.
Charlotte grows increasingly critical of the Jacobins and their radical methods, particularly the Reign of Terror.
Charlotte decides to assassinate Jean-Paul Marat, a prominent Jacobin leader, to end the Reign of Terror.
Charlotte Corday successfully assassinates Jean-Paul Marat in his bathtub in Paris, becoming a controversial figure in the Revolution.
Charlotte is tried and convicted for the assassination of Marat, facing a court that is heavily influenced by the Jacobins.
Charlotte Corday is executed by guillotine in Paris, becoming a martyr to some and a traitor to others.