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United States: Republic or Democracy? Clarifying the Difference

Source: Was the United States Founded as a Republic or a Democracy? (2025-06-25)

The article explores the common debate over whether the United States was founded as a republic or a democracy, emphasizing that these terms are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings. A republic is a form of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, while a democracy generally refers to rule by the people directly. The U.S. was established as a republic with a system designed to balance popular sovereignty with protections for individual rights and prevent tyranny. Historically, the framers of the Constitution aimed to create a government that incorporated democratic principles but also included safeguards such as the Electoral College and the Senate to temper direct popular influence. Over time, the distinction has become blurred in public discourse, but understanding the original intent helps clarify how the U.S. government functions today, blending democratic participation with republican structures to maintain stability and protect minority rights.

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