What did Schama suggest was the source of the revolution’s energy?

Schama suggested that the source of the revolution's energy was primarily rooted in violence and collective action. He portrayed the French Revolution as a moment of heightened social tension, where the masses, driven by a desire for change, engaged in significant and often violent actions against the ruling class. This collective action was driven by a widespread discontent with the existing social and political order, which culminated in uprisings and riots that characterized the revolutionary period.

The idea of violence as a catalyst for the revolution highlights how the population mobilized not only in response to political oppression but also as a fundamental part of their quest for social justice and reform. The passion and fervor of the people, expressed through acts of defiance and aggression, played a crucial role in propelling the movement forward and shaping the course of events during the revolution.

While other influences such as propaganda or international support played roles in the broader context of the revolution, Schama emphasized that the direct actions taken by the populace—rooted in violent upheaval and grassroots organization—were central to the revolution's momentum.