The concept of democracy has its roots in ancient Greece, particularly in the city-state of Athens. The term "democracy" itself derives from the Greek words "demos" meaning "people" and "kratos" meaning "power." Athenian democracy was a direct form, where citizens participated in decision-making personally rather than through elected representatives. Only free male citizens over the age of 18 could participate, excluding women, slaves, and non-citizens.
One of the earliest forms of democratic governance was established in the 5th century BCE under the leadership of Cleisthenes, often referred to as the "Father of Athenian Democracy." His reforms allowed for broader participation and the establishment of the Assembly, where citizens could vote on laws and policies. The practice of using sortition for selecting officials was a distinctive feature of Athenian democracy, ensuring that all citizens had a chance to hold office.
As democracy evolved, the Roman Republic introduced a different model. While it retained some democratic elements, such as the Senate and popular assemblies, it was ultimately an oligarchic system where power was concentrated among the elite. The Latin phrase "Res Publica" emphasized the role of the public in governance, but the voting rights were largely restricted to landowners.
The concept of democracy underwent significant transformation during the Enlightenment in the 17th and 18th centuries, with thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau advocating for individual rights and popular sovereignty. Rousseau’s work, "The Social Contract," asserted that legitimate political authority comes from the collective will of the people.
The late 18th and 19th centuries saw the rise of representative democracy, notably through the establishment of constitutional frameworks. The United States Constitution and the French Revolution led to the implementation of systems that incorporated checks and balances, aiming to prevent tyranny while allowing for broader suffrage over time.
The 20th century marked a pivotal era for democracy, with global movements advocating for civil rights and suffrage. The aftermath of World War II saw a surge in democratic ideals, leading to the establishment of international organizations such as the United Nations that promote democracy and human rights worldwide. The fall of communism in Eastern Europe in the late 20th century further highlighted the appeal of democratic governance, although challenges such as authoritarianism and populism have persisted into the 21st century.