The Evolution of Democracy

By DekuTheAbsoluteMadman
  • Period: 700 BCE to 350 BCE

    Greece

    In the ancient city of Athens, all citizens were supposed to take a role in their cities’ affairs. The word "citizen" only applied to males though.
  • 509 BCE

    Rome

    The king was sent away and Rome was declared a republic. Rich families took over, ruling over the commoners, AKA "plebs"
  • Period: 476 to 1215

    Monarchy

    Throughout the middle ages, most of Europe ran their countries using a monarchy, where a king or queen ruled. This ended in 1215 when they were forced to give up their "divine right" and create a parliament.
  • 1215

    Magna Carta

    King John is forced to sign the Magna Carta, a document with certain provisions that safeguarded the rights of citizens. The Magna Carta marks the beginning of our parliamentary democracy

  • The French Revolution

    The French Revolution was "rooted in the spirit of Democracy", like the American Revolution before it. Eventually though, those who championed liberty began imitating the actions of dictators to get their way, and used the guillotine to eliminate enemies.