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Civics and Government

Lesson Objective

These next pages will review some basics of America's civic life. This section will also expand on
ideas about the United States government that have appeared in previous lessons.

Previously Covered

Prior sections covered the colonial times through the 20th century by reviewing some of the key events
that have shaped our country.

Roots of Democracy

The United States of America comprises some 295,734,134 people. And, while its political institutions are
well-established and seemingly timeless, political life in the U.S. (like all places) is constantly evolving.
Let's examine some of the major antecedents of America's representative democracy.

The Greeks

The Athenians had one of the first forms of large-scale democracy. In the 5th century BCE, citizens came
together to pass laws, try crimes, and decide other important issues facing the city-state. However, in this
case a "citizen" meant a male who had completed his military training. Women, resident aliens, and
slaves were not permitted to assemble and voice their opinions.