Foundations of Government M

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Democracy

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A form of government in which citizens hold political power.

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Representative Democracy

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A government in which citizens elect leaders to represent their rights and interests in government.

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Direct Democracy

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A government in which citizens are directly involved in the day-to-day work of the government.

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Magna Carta

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A royal charter that stated that everyone, including leaders, is subject to the law.

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Natural Rights

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Rights granted to all citizens, including the rights to life, liberty, and property.

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John Locke

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An English philosopher who argued that governments must protect the citizens' natural rights.

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Montesquieu

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A French philosopher who believed that the best forms of government separated powers into branches.

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Civic Participation

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When citizens take an active role in the community or government.

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Rule of Law

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A principle that states no one is above the law and the law applies to everyone.

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Sovereignty

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The ability to rule absolutely within an area of land or territory.