Democratic Traditions

In this lesson, you learned about the origin of direct democracy in ancient Athens, and representative democracy in ancient Rome. You also learned about the essential principles of democracy:

• Each individual is valued.
• All people should be treated fairly, before the law.
• The majority rules, while respecting minority rights.
• Compromise is essential to decision-making.
• Personal freedoms are protected.

Your knowledge of democracy will prove useful as you continue your study of Virginia and U.S. government.