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Democracy vs. Republic - The United States of America is a Republic, not a Democracy

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Democracy vs. Republic

Here's a  two minute history quiz. The American form of government is best defined as:  A) A democracy B) a constitutional republic C) who really cares?

What kind of government do we have here in America? If you listen to politicians, the media, even the President, you will constantly be told that America is a democracy. But that is not only the wrong answer to the test; it is dangerous.

When America was founded, "democracy" was a dirty word. Democracy was the fuel of the French revolution which created chaos, tyranny, and cost thousands their lives at the guillotine.

Democracy in 1787 was understood as "mob rule." Democracy meant that government could do whatever it wanted as long as 51% of the strongest crowd was willing to support it. Democracy meant government not by the rule of law, but by the force of mob power. Democracy was such a dangerous threat that George Washington was willing to come out of retirement and take charge of the American military once again to go to war against France.

America is not a democracy, nor should it be. Our form of government is based upon constitutional laws which apply to everyone. Here, 51 percent of the people can disagree with a law, but until they mount the effort to legally change that law, they are bound to it. Here the mob does not rule, no matter what the public opinion polls say; and no one, no matter how powerful, famous, or wealthy, is to be held above the law.

On September 17th, 1787, Dr. Benjamin Franklin finished his work at the great Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. As he left the capitol, a lady asked him, "Mr. Franklin, what have you given us?"

He replied, "A Republic, madame, if you can keep it."

So the next time you hear a news anchor reporter use the term democracy, remember:   it's a Republic.

If we can keep it.

Was America founded on Christian principles? More resources here.

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