Final answer:
The Directory was established in 1795 by the French Convention to restore stability after the Reign of Terror, representing a shift towards moderate governance. It faced challenges from different political groups, leading to its overthrow by a coup d'état, marking the rise of Napoleon as a more central authority in France.
Step-by-step explanation:
The French government transitioned to a Directory following the decline of the Reign of Terror. The Directory was an executive council of five men, implemented by the Convention as a means to restore political stability. As disagreements between the Committee of Public Safety and the Convention grew, particularly over religious and economic policies, support for Robespierre and his repressive policies waned.
After dismantling the Committee of Public Safety, the Convention sought a balance of power and thus conceived the Directory via a new constitution in 1795. The Directory also indicated a shift from radical revolutionary fervor towards a slightly more moderate and conservative form of governance. However, it also faced significant challenges, including opposition from radical Jacobins and conservative monarchists during a period of economic hardship.
The Directory was eventually overthrown by a coup d'état led by Napoleon Bonaparte. This coup was supported by two of the directors seeking a more stable and authoritative government against the backdrop of rising challenges. Napoleon's rise signified a move towards a stronger central authority in French governance, culminating in the establishment of the Consulate, with Napoleon as the First Consul wielding significant power over France.