American Democracy: History and Function

Democracy and Its Origins

• Democracy is a system that allows people to choose their leaders, and it has worked well in the United States for over 200 years.
• The origin of modern democracy is often attributed to the ancient Greeks, who lived in independent city-states with democratic systems.

The Magna Carta

• The Magna Carta was a charter signed in 1215 by English King John, granting specific liberties to his subjects.
• It was a document that limited the king's power and asserted the rights of his subjects.
• The Magna Carta was signed at Runnymede, along the bank of the River Thames, after a group of English barons stood up to King John and demanded that his authority exist within the rule of law.
• It is considered a foundational document, inspiring the British constitution and influencing America's 'Founding Fathers' in their quest for independence.

The Glorious Revolution

• The Glorious Revolution took place in 1688, resulting in the overthrow of King James II and the ascension of William of Orange to the throne.
• This event was sparked by King James' pro-Catholic policies, which concerned many Protestant members of Parliament.
• The Glorious Revolution led to the English Bill of Rights, which was passed in 1689 and set forth limits on the power of the king and outlined the rights of Parliament.
• Following the Glorious Revolution, the English monarchy became more defined in terms of its powers, and Parliament played a larger role.

Influential Intellectuals

• John Locke, known as the 'Father of Classical Liberalism,' was a philosopher who greatly influenced English politics towards democratic ends.
• Classical liberalism is a philosophy that advocates for limited government and the protection of individual rights.
• Edmund Burke was another influential intellectual who helped spread democratic ideas.

The Declaration of Independence

• The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, was a product of the long line of democratic tradition that began with the Magna Carta.
• It was influenced by the philosophies of John Locke and others, and it dissolved legal ties with Great Britain, making America an independent, sovereign state.
• The Declaration of Independence was adopted in the spirit of the English nobles who stood up to King John, asserting the right to overthrow an unjust government and establish a new one.