Thus the system of Ptolemy was a step in astronomical progress, that of Copernicus was a revolution.

So, in 1789, there was struggle and progress; revolution there was none.

An examination of the reforms which were attempted proves this.
The nation, so long a victim of monarchical selfishness, thought to deliver itself for ever by declaring that it alone was sovereign.

But what was monarchy?
The sovereignty of one man.

What is democracy?
The sovereignty of the nation, or, rather, of the national majority.