democracy
The Declaration of Independence never mentions the word “democracy.” But it describes a government run by the people, which is the definition of democracy. The American Heritage Dictionary defines democracy as “Government by the people, exercised either directly or through elected representatives.” That means that a democracy can take two forms:
1. Direct democracy. The people vote on everything. They are the government. Athens in ancient Greece had a direct democracy. The people of the city of Athens met together and voted on what should be done. This form of democracy is difficult in a large country.
2. Republic. The people vote on someone to represent them in the government. The representative will vote in the government. The United States is a republic. Citizens vote to elect representatives who run the government.
Important Ideas | consent of the governed | equality | independence | liberty | pursuit of happiness | representation | unalienable and natural rights