The Principles Of American Democracy Essay

In the United States of America, democracy has been a fundamental part of the nation since its founding. The principles and ideals that define American democracy are essential to understanding how it is applied in our republic. The U.S. is a federal republic and democracy, where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf at the federal, state, and local levels. The power of the people held by the people is what allows us to live peacefully which is considered our basic human right. Throughout history, there have been actions taken by both the executive branch via executive orders and the judicial branch through various Supreme Court cases which have helped to shape our country's history and law system. This essay will

Popular sovereignty, or the belief that the people are the ultimate source of authority, is the basis for the republican form of government, as citizens are allowed to directly participate in the process of making laws and selecting officials to represent their interests. Limited government, on the other hand, is the idea that the government should not have too much power and should be held accountable to the people they are meant to serve. Individual rights refer to the freedoms guaranteed to citizens under the Constitution, such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to a fair trial. Finally, equality before the law is the principle that all citizens should be treated equally and receive the same treatment no matter their race, gender, or social

Through Supreme Court rulings and executive actions, these ideals and principles are applied in our society, ensuring that all citizens are treated equally and given the same opportunities to pursue their dreams.

For centuries, the United States has been founded upon its unwavering commitment to democracy and liberty. From our earliest days as a fledgling nation, the American people have actively affirmed their dedication to popular sovereignty and individual rights. This spirit is embodied in our vital documents, our free court system, and the executive actions of our leaders that safeguard these basic rights for all citizens. The Supreme Court rulings on Marbury v. Madison (1803), Brown v. Board of Education (1954), and Roe v Wade (1973) are prime examples of how far-reaching this commitment truly is. The advancement of civil rights through President Obama's executive order on immigration further demonstrates that we are dedicated to steadily expanding these fundamental notions of justice throughout society until equality before the law is achieved by everyone regardless of race, gender, or social status. American democracy remains a work in progress with continual challenges emerging in pursuit of fairness for all citizens; however, those core principles are intact since 1776 when America declared independence from Great Britain--and will remain