UNIT 1 LESSON 1.2

Authoritarianism

Definition: A system where power is concentrated in one ruler or a small group. Citizens have limited political freedoms. Significance: Shows what the U.S. Founders wanted to avoid — unchecked power leads to tyranny.

Democray

Definition: Government where political power comes from the people.
Significance: Foundation of American political identity — people rule through elections and participation.

Direct democracy

Definition: Citizens vote directly on laws and policies.
Significance: Used in ancient Athens; the U.S. uses it only in limited forms (ballot initiatives).

Representative democracy

Definition: Citizens elect leaders who make decisions on their behalf. Significance: The core structure of the U.S. government — practical for large populations.

Federal republic

Definition: A republic with power shared between national and state governments. Significance: The U.S. is a federal republic — states have their own powers, but the national government is supreme.

Parliamentary system

Definition: System where the executive (prime minister) is chosen by the legislature.
Significance: Common in the UK and Canada; contrasts with the U.S. presidential system.

Presidental system

Definition: System where the executive (president) is elected separately from the legislature. Significance: The U.S. uses this system — it strengthens separation of powers.