Democracy – Origins and Foundations

Ms. West GOV reg

What is the purpose of the state and why do people form governments?

To maintain order, protect rights, provide services, and promote the common good. People form governments to avoid chaos and to ensure stability, safety, and justice.

What government models exist around the world?

Democracy (power with the people; U.S., Canada)

Monarchy (rule by king/queen; UK, Saudi Arabia)

Dictatorship/Authoritarian (power by one leader; North Korea)

Theocracy (rule by religion; Iran)

Communism (state controls economy/society; China, Cuba).

How is American democracy different from other government models?

It emphasizes popular sovereignty, checks and balances, rule of law, protection of individual rights, and elected representation, unlike authoritarian or hereditary rule.

What is the key difference between a democracy and a republic?

In a democracy, citizens vote directly on laws. In a republic, citizens elect representatives to make laws on their behalf (the U.S. is a republic).

What did Thomas Hobbes believe?

People are naturally selfish; government is needed to keep order; strong authority (absolute monarchy) is best.

What did John Locke believe?

People have natural rights (life, liberty, property); government must protect them; if it fails, people can overthrow it.

What did Jean-Jacques Rousseau believe?

People are naturally good but corrupted by society; government should reflect the “general will” through direct democracy.

What did Montesquieu believe?

Separation of powers (legislative, executive, judicial) prevents tyranny and protects liberty.

How did the Magna Carta shape American government?

Limited the power of rulers and introduced the idea that leaders are not above the law.

How did the English Bill of Rights shape American government?

Guaranteed rights like trial by jury, free elections, and protection against cruel punishment — influenced the U.S. Bill of Rights.

How did Virginia’s Declaration of Rights influence American government?

Established principles of individual rights, including freedom of press, religion, and fair trial — a model for the U.S. Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights.

How did Virginia’s Statute of Religious Freedom influence American government?

Established separation of church and state and religious liberty — influenced the First Amendment.

What natural rights are in the Declaration of Independence?

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

How are the ideas of the Declaration of Independence shown in the USA today?

Through protection of individual rights, equality under law, freedom of speech, and democratic participation.

What does it mean to be an American today?

Participating in democracy, respecting diversity, exercising rights and responsibilities, and upholding liberty and justice for all.