Major Types of Government All governments belong to one of four major groups.

An autocracy is a government in which the power and authority to rule are in the hands of a single individual. Autocracies may be total dictatorships, or monarchies (rule by a king or a queen). An oligarchy is a government in which a small group holds power. Oligarchies typically exist in countries ruled by the communist party. Some countries ruled by an oligarchy may claim that they have legislatures that speak for the people however, under this type of government actual power is really in the hands of only a few people.

A democracy is a system of government in which rule is by the people. In a democracy, many people have some kind of influence in government. In a direct democracy the people govern themselves. A key to a direct democracy is that the area that is governed must be geographically small. Larger areas may be ruled by a representative democracy. In a representative democracy, the people elect officials to represent them in a council, parliament, legislature, or congress and make laws. In a republic, voters are the source of the government’s authority.

A theocracy is a type of government in which religious leaders make rules that govern the lives of the people in a state.

Characteristics of Democracy Individual liberty, majority rule, free elections, and competing political parties are some characteristics of a democracy.

Democracies allow people the freedom to develop to the best of their ability. But democracy does not allow complete freedom. Government decisions in a democracy are made by the majority of voters in free elections. Respect for minority opinions and rights is a fundamental of democracy. American democracy attempts to protect the rights of individuals against government abuse. Legitimate democratic governments get their authority from the people.

Free elections give the people the chance to tell rulers how they feel about issues and leadership. If people are pressured into voting for or against a specific cause, then the will of the people is actually unknown, and there is no true democracy. Competing political parties give voters a choice between candidates. Finally, the party in the minority keeps the other party “honest” by criticizing the majority position on issues.

Nurturing a Democracy There are five general conditions that promote democracy. that promote democracy.

1.Active citizen participation keeps people involved in their government. This helps advance democracy. 2.A favorable economy also fosters democracy. A stable economy without extreme differences between the rich and poor allows people to stay involved in a democracy 3.Widespread education promotes democracy. When people are well educated, they are better able to make informed decisions regarding political issues and candidates.

4.A strong civil society develops democracy. Networks of voluntary associations, economic groups, religious organizations, and many other kinds of groups give citizens a chance to make their views known to government officials. They also give people the means for protecting their rights. 5.Finally, democracy thrives when there is a social consensus. In a democratic society, most people value democratic ideals such as individual liberty and equality of opportunity. They must also agree about the purpose and limits of government.

How did the United States begin as a colonial territory ruled by an autocracy (king) and become a republican democracy?