Democracy: GCSE History Definition

Natasha Smith

Written by: Natasha Smith

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

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What is Democracy?

In GCSE History, democracy is a system of government where the eligible members of the population hold the power, either directly or indirectly through elected representatives. The eligible population choose their representatives through free elections every few years, or when a new election is called.

There are many different types of democracies. The two main forms of democracy are: 

  • Representative democracy

    • A system of government where the eligible population elect representatives who propose and vote on legislation on behalf of the population 

    • This was established in the United States of America after the American Revolution (1775-1783) 

  • Parliamentary democracy 

    • A system of government where the eligible population elect representatives to parliament who make laws on the population's behalf 

    • This was established in Weimar Germany (1918-1933) after the First World War

Democracy Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Explore our revision notes for Edexcel GCSE, AQA GCSE and CIE IGCSE to see where democracy fits into the revision notes for those specifications

Why not use the Save My Exams flashcards and exam questions to revise democracy and related topics? 

GCSE History Revision Resources

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Natasha Smith

Author: Natasha Smith

Expertise: History Content Creator

After graduating with a degree in history, Natasha gained her PGCE at Keele University. With more than 10 years of teaching experience, Natasha taught history at both GCSE and A Level. Natasha's specialism is modern world history. As an educator, Natasha channels this passion into her work, aiming to instil in students the same love for history that has fuelled her own curiosity.

Bridgette Barrett

Author: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.

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