America is a Democracy

A democracy is run by the people. We participate in a democracy, and take responsibility and participate in elections. In a democracy we have rights and freedoms.

What is a Democracy?

Run by the People

Democracy is a government that is run by the people.

Participation

Citizens participate in a democracy. Citizens participate by voting in elections. By voting citizens help choose their representatives. A president, a governor and a mayor are all elected representatives.

Elections

A democracy has elections. In a democracy citizens vote for their representatives. A representative is a leader such as a mayor, governor and president. In a democracy elections are free and fair.

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and freedoms are important parts of a democracy. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of the press are some of these rights.

Checks and Balances

The government has three branches, or parts. They are the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The three branches keep the government balanced. It makes it so no branch gets too much power and keeps things fair.