ABSTRACT
The Constitution of 1793 marks a milestone in the history of democracy. When it was proposed on 10 June 1793, Robespierre proclaimed to the Jacobin club: “We can present to the whole world a constitutional Code that is infinitely superior to all moral and political institutions, a work undoubtedly capable of perfection, but that presents the essential basis of public happiness and offers the sublime and majestic design of French regeneration.” 1 When the Convention submitted the constitutional act directly to the people for ratification, it inaugurated a new era in democratic practice. In contrast, the Constitution of 1791 was not submitted to the people and the American Constitution was ratified in each state by elected delegates.
