Democracy

Definition

Democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives. This political framework encourages participation, equality, and accountability, forming the foundation for modern governance and shaping societal structures throughout history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of democracy has its roots in ancient Greece, particularly in the city-state of Athens, where citizens participated directly in decision-making.
2. The Enlightenment era introduced new ideas about individual rights and governance, influencing democratic movements across Europe and the Americas in the 18th and 19th centuries.
3. In the 20th century, many countries transitioned from authoritarian regimes to democratic governance, often as a response to conflicts like World War I and World War II.
4. Post-World War II, there was a significant wave of democratization around the globe, with countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America adopting democratic systems following decolonization.
5. The fall of communism in Eastern Europe in the late 20th century marked a pivotal moment for democracy as several nations transitioned to democratic governments amidst significant political change.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment thinkers influence the development of democratic ideals during significant historical movements?
  • Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke and Montesquieu laid the groundwork for democratic ideals by emphasizing individual rights, separation of powers, and the social contract. Their ideas inspired revolutions such as the American Revolution and later influenced the French Revolution, promoting notions that sovereignty rests with the people. This philosophical shift towards valuing human rights and governmental accountability fueled demands for democratic reforms across Europe and beyond.
• Evaluate the impact of World War I on the spread of democracy in Europe.
  • World War I played a crucial role in reshaping political landscapes across Europe. The war led to the collapse of empires such as Austria-Hungary and Russia, creating opportunities for new nations to emerge and adopt democratic forms of governance. Additionally, the war fostered a desire for self-determination among various ethnic groups, which fueled movements advocating for democracy. This post-war period saw increased calls for suffrage and representative government as nations sought stability through democratic ideals.
• Assess how the fall of communism influenced democratic transitions in Eastern Europe and its implications for global politics.
  • The fall of communism in Eastern Europe during the late 20th century dramatically shifted political dynamics in the region. Countries like Poland, Hungary, and Czechoslovakia transitioned from totalitarian regimes to democracies, driven by popular movements demanding freedom and reform. This shift not only transformed local governance but also had significant implications for global politics by challenging authoritarianism worldwide. The spread of democracy led to increased international cooperation and changes in geopolitical alliances as newly democratic nations sought integration with Western institutions.

Related terms

Republic: A form of government in which the country is considered a 'public matter,' and is not the private concern or property of the rulers, where officials are accountable to the public and must govern according to existing constitutional law.

Suffrage: The right to vote in political elections, an essential component of democratic systems that has evolved over time to include various groups who were historically disenfranchised.

Civil Liberties: Fundamental rights and freedoms protected from government interference, including freedom of speech, assembly, and religion, which are essential for the functioning of a democracy.