A system of government in which power belongs to the people, usually through free elections where citizens choose their leaders and help decide laws.
From Greek *dēmokratia* meaning 'rule of the people', from *dēmos* ('people') and *kratos* ('power, rule'). It first described certain city-states like ancient Athens.
Democracy literally means 'people power', but in practice it’s a complex machine of laws, institutions, and habits that protect that power. Voting is only the surface; what really keeps democracy alive is how people handle disagreement and limits on power.
Historically, many democracies excluded women from voting, office-holding, and formal political participation, while still using the term 'democracy'. Gendered assumptions about citizenship and public/private spheres shaped who was seen as part of 'the people'.
When discussing democracy, be explicit about whose participation is included or excluded, and acknowledge gendered histories of suffrage and representation.
Women suffragists, organizers, and political leaders worldwide have been central to expanding democratic rights and redefining democratic practice.
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