People of France!
For fifteen hundred years you lived in bondage – and thus in misery. For six years you have barely drawn breath, hoping for independence, happiness, and equality.
Equality! The first law of nature, the deepest need of man, and the sacred bond of every just society!
We are all equal, are we not? This principle is unshakable. Only a madman would claim it is night while the sun is shining.
Therefore we demand: from now on we wish to live and die as equals, just as we were born equal. We demand true equality – or death. That is our unyielding will.
People of France!
The French Revolution was only the prelude to a greater, more solemn revolution – and it will be the last.
The people have swept away the kings and priests who conspired against them. Likewise, they will sweep away the new tyrants and political hypocrites who have taken their place.
Henceforth there shall be no distinctions among men except those of age and gender. Since all share the same needs and abilities, there shall be only one education and one bread for all.
The aristocratic constitutions of 1791 and 1795 only tightened your chains instead of breaking them. The constitution of 1793 was a mighty step toward true equality; never had the goal been so near. Yet even it fell short and failed to lead the people to the common happiness it so solemnly proclaimed.
People of France!
Open your eyes and hearts to the fullness of happiness. Recognize it – and proclaim with us the Republic of Equals.
†
