Rité

Rité is a term used in the context of the French Revolution to describe the rituals and ceremonies that were established to replace religious practices. It was introduced by the revolutionary government to promote the ideals of reason, equality, and the cult of the supreme being. The term "rité" was coined by the revolutionary journalist and politician Jean-Baptiste Carrier, who sought to create a secular alternative to traditional religious rituals.

The rité was designed to be inclusive and accessible to all citizens, regardless of their social status or religious background. It emphasized the importance of civic duty and the unity of the French nation. The ceremonies often included elements such as the singing of patriotic songs, the recitation of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, and the swearing of oaths to the nation.

The rité was implemented in various forms across France, with different regions and departments adopting their own versions. Despite its initial enthusiasm, the rité faced criticism for its lack of religious meaning and its perceived exclusion of those who held strong religious beliefs. As the revolutionary period progressed, the rité was gradually abandoned in favor of more traditional religious practices, which were seen as more meaningful and less divisive.