A Brief History of Democracy

Definition:
Democracy is a (Greek demos, the people, Kratein,to rule),
political in which the people of a country rule through any form of
government they chose to establish

Ancient Greek city-states were often run as direct democracies in

which all voting citizens (commoners, women, and slaves were
excluded) had a voice in what occurred

 Decision making was limited to a privileged few

Ancient democracy did not presuppose equality of all individuals;

the majority of the populace, notable slaves, women, and
foreigners, had no political rights

Athens, the greatest city of the city democracies, limited the

franchise (right to vote) to citizens; they had to be native born,
freeman, and over 18 years old

 They had the right to vote,

hold office, own property, and defend themselves
in court
They had freedom of speech
and freedom of assembly
Responsibility of the citizens include:
Serve the army, in the navy, and in
the court of law
Participate in the monthly assembly

The democracies of the city-states of classical Greece and Rome

during the early years of the Republic were unlike the
democracies of today
They were direct democracies, in which,
all citizens could speak and vote in assemblies that
resembled New England town meetings

What is Democracy?
Democracy (from the Greek demos, the people, kratein, to rule)
a political system in which the people of a country rule through any
form of government they choose to establish
Democracy is the best way to meet the diverse needs of
the people
People make decisions that reflect will of the majority
True democratic citizens not only enjoy their rights and
freedoms, but they also take very seriously the responsibilities
of living democratically
Open communication and mass participation are also
important responsibilities of the democratic citizen
The democratic citizen upholds
Human Dignity
Respect the rights
Work for the common good

 Has a sense of responsibility

Elements of Democracy
1. Rule of Law: In democracy, everyone must adhere to
some laws (including leaders) Laws should be known,
predictable, and impartial
2. Political Equality: Every citizen has the same right to vote
for office and speak on public issues
3. Common Good: Democratic citizens should work towards
the common good (what will make the most people safe and
secure and happy). Have some sense of responsibility and
caring for others
4. Personal Freedom: People enjoy many personal freedoms
such as freedom of religion and freedom of expression
5. Human Dignity: Democratic citizens should protect and
uphold the dignity of all people
6. Political Freedom: People can speak from associations,
run for office and vote without being intimidated

7. Being informed and getting involved: Citizens should

communicate openly and participate individually and
collectively in issues that shape their community, nation, and
world.
8. Respect: Citizens should respect right of others

Turning points of history in Greece

Ancient Greeks: The revolution of democracy