Understanding Democracy for Students

What is the origin of the word "democracy"?

• Latin words "demos" and "kratia"

• Greek words "demos" and "kratos"

• Roman words "demos" and "kratia"

• Egyptian words "demos" and "kratos"

What type of democracy was practiced in Athens around 500 B.C.?

• Representative democracy

• Direct democracy

• Monarchy

• Dictatorship

In a representative democracy, who elects the leaders?

• The government

• The military

• The citizens

• The judiciary

What is one of the fundamental principles of a democracy?

• Rule by a single leader

• Active participation of citizens

• Inheritance of leadership

• Rule by the wealthy

What ensures that elected officials have to follow the same principles as the people?

• Rule of law

• Rule of the majority

• Rule of the elite

• Rule of the military

What is a crucial part of a democratic system?

• Regular elections

• Appointed leaders

• Hereditary rule

• Military coups

What is important to protect in a democracy, even if the majority supports a decision?

• The rights of the majority

• The rights of minorities

• The rights of the government

• The rights of the wealthy

What system does the United States use to limit the powers of government?

• Absolute monarchy

• Checks and balances

• Military rule

• Oligarchy

What is the term limit for a U.S. president?

• 1 four-year term

• 2 four-year terms

• 3 four-year terms

• Unlimited terms

What phrase summarizes the essence of democracy as described by Abraham Lincoln?

• "Of the government, by the government, for the government"

• "Of the people, by the people, for the people"

• "Of the leaders, by the leaders, for the leaders"

• "Of the wealthy, by the wealthy, for the wealthy"