As an expert in the field of political history, I can provide an in-depth analysis of the question, "When did we become a democracy?" It's a complex question that requires an understanding of the historical context and the evolution of democratic principles over time. The question seems to be framed in the context of the United States, so I will focus on the American experience.

The concept of democracy has evolved significantly over the centuries, and the United States has played a pivotal role in shaping and refining democratic governance. However, it's important to note that the journey to democracy was not a straightforward one, and it involved numerous challenges and transformations.

The Early Foundations:

The roots of American democracy can be traced back to the colonial period, where ideas of representative government and the consent of the governed were already taking shape. The Mayflower Compact of 1620 is often cited as an early example of a democratic agreement among settlers. However, it was the Revolutionary War that truly set the stage for the development of a democratic system in America.

The Declaration of Independence (1776):

While the Declaration of Independence is a foundational document that articulated the principles of liberty and equality, it did not establish a democratic government. It was a declaration of the colonies' intention to be free from British rule, and it laid the groundwork for the development of a new form of government.

The Articles of Confederation (1781):

After the Revolutionary War, the Articles of Confederation served as the first written constitution of the United States. However, this document had significant limitations and did not create a strong central government. It was more of a treaty between sovereign states than a constitution for a unified nation.

**The U.S. Constitution (1787) and Ratification (1788):**

The U.S. Constitution, drafted in 1787 and ratified in 1788, is often considered the moment when the United States became a democracy. It established a framework for a federal government with checks and balances, and it included provisions for the election of representatives. However, it's important to recognize that the original Constitution did not provide for universal suffrage. Women, enslaved individuals, and many men without property were excluded from voting.

The Bill of Rights (1789):

The Bill of Rights, which includes the first ten amendments to the Constitution, was ratified in 1789. These amendments further protected individual liberties and provided a more solid foundation for democratic principles. Notably, the 14th and 15th Amendments, ratified later in 1868 and 1870 respectively, extended voting rights to African American men and provided a legal basis for equal protection under the law.

The Evolution of Suffrage:

The right to vote in the United States has expanded significantly since the Constitution's ratification. Over the years, amendments and legislation have gradually extended voting rights to more citizens. The 19th Amendment (1920) granted women the right to vote, and the 26th Amendment (1971) lowered the voting age to 18.

The Ongoing Struggle for Democracy:

Democracy in the United States is not a static concept but an ongoing process. It has faced numerous challenges, including civil rights movements, voting rights battles, and debates over campaign finance and electoral reform. The struggle for a more inclusive and representative democracy continues to this day.

In conclusion, while the U.S. Constitution and its subsequent amendments have been instrumental in shaping American democracy, the journey to becoming a democracy was a gradual process that unfolded over many years. It involved the collective efforts of many individuals and groups advocating for a more just and representative form of government.

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This week, 215 years ago, the lofty ideals of the Constitution passed their first test. The dawn of American democracy didn't come in 1776, with the Declaration of Independence. It didn't come in 1788, when the Constitution was ratified by the states, or in 1789, when George Washington took office.Sep 20, 2011read more >>