V. The Americans and the French revolted against the monarchy
1. The Declaration of Independence
Thomas Jefferson explained the reasons for the American Revolution in this document. It echoed the works of Locke and Rousseau. A social contract between the government and its people.
2. The Building of Democracy
After the Revolution, the Americans built a NEW government. Many Americans felt they needed a STRONG national government (FEDERALISTS) The opposing side believed in a very strong national government would infringe on individual rights (ANTI-FEDERALISTS ). In 1787, leaders met and divided the government into 3 seperarte branches, with the Constitution as our fundamental law of the land.
3.Government of the People
America,s revolution inspired the French to rebel in 1789 (the French Revolution). The French, also created a declaration (The Declaration of the Rights of Man) similar to ours.
VI. Conservatives Tried to Restore the Old Order
*The rise of democratic ideas scared European leaders.
*They supported CONSERVATISM (preserving traditional practices and values)
*Congress of Vienna- In 1814-1815, leaders met in Vienna to make a peace for Europe. Austrian Prince Metternich, a conservative, dominated the meeting. He distrusted democracy and felt a strong monarchy was needed for a stable government.The Congress restored old rulers to their thrones throughout Europe and kept down democracy through censorship and espionage.
VII. New Ideas Challenged Conservatism
*Conservatives Could NOT stop democracy! Different political groups emerged:
1. Liberals-
Did not support democracy, wanted voting rights only for land owners. Did support constitutions, bill of rights, etc.
2. Radicals-
Thought reforms of the liberals did NOT go far enough.Wanted rule by majority, unlike conservatives or liberals.
3.Socialism-
Wanted laws to regulate working conditions and or decrease the inequality between the rich and poor. Did believe in cooperation among social classes UNLIKE the communists.
4. Communism-
Complete socialism with state ownership of land and production. The working class (or proletariat) must overthrow the capitalist.
VIII. Peaceful Reforms Advanced Democracy
IN,U.S, people did not overthrow as Marx wished, but reformed society through peaceful demonstrations. ie. voting.
I.Expansion of Democracy in America-
Even though the U.S.was a democracy, it had many "undemocratic practices". So people 'had to change these. Example: end slavery, grant women the vote.
2.A more representative Parliament-
In late 1800s the working poor still had no representation in Britain.1867-1911 the poor fought for democratic rights and won!
* Europe and Russia had SLOW progress into democracy.