What exactly is a republic?
A republic (Latin: res publica, meaning “public affair”) is a form of government in which “power is held by the people and their elected representatives”. With modern republicanism, it has become the opposing form of government to a monarchy and therefore a modern republic has no monarch as head of state.
What is an example of a republic?
A republic is a form of government where the citizens have the supreme power, and they exercise that power by voting and electing representatives to make decisions and govern. The United States of America is an example of a federal republic.
Who said a democracy if you can keep it?
On September 17, 1787, delegates left the Constitutional Convention in Independence Hall in Philadelphia. As they exited, Benjamin Franklin was asked what kind of government do we have? “A Republic,” he replied, “if you can keep it.”
Who invented republic?
the Romans
It all began when the Romans overthrew their Etruscan conquerors in 509 B.C.E. Centered north of Rome, the Etruscans had ruled over the Romans for hundreds of years. Once free, the Romans established a republic, a government in which citizens elected representatives to rule on their behalf.
What are the advantages of a republic?
Advantages of a republic The government and the people are all accountable under the highest law in the land (the constitution). Republics recognise the rights of individuals in the law, rather than just the rule of the majority. The power of the executive branch is restrained. Both legislative houses are kept equal under the constitution.
Can a republic be a democracy?
While a republic is a represented democracy with law as the rule to protect the minority, it also allows for the minority to have power over the majority. All within the law are subject to the whims of the people in power.
What is the role of the people in a republic?
The Founders read that republican government was one in which: The power of government is held by the people. The people give power to leaders they elect to represent them and serve their interests. The representatives are responsible for helping all the people in the country, not just a few people.
What are best defines the word republic?
Legal Definition of republic. 1 : a government having a chief of state who is not a monarch and who in modern times is usually a president also : a political unit (as a nation) having such a form of government.