1. Characteristics of Democracy A true democratic government has characteristics that distinguish it from other forms of government.

2. Government in a democracy works to promote the kind of equality in which all people have an equal opportunity to develop their talents to the fullest extent possible.

3. 2. Majority Rule with Minority Rights Government decisions are based on majority rule. Concern about the possible tyranny of the majority. The rights of the minority are protected by the Constitution.

4. All genuine democracies have free and open elections. Free elections also help ensure that public officials pay attention to the wishes of the people. In a democracy----”One person, one vote”

5. 4. Competing Political Parties Rival parties help make elections meaningful. They give voters a choice among candidates. In the United States, a two-party system in which the Republicans and the Democrats have become the major political parties has developed.