1. Democracy in the United States
Civics
Chapter 1, Section 3

2. Main idea
American democracy is characterized by core democratic ideals and principles, as well as by the free enterprise system

3. Ideals of American Democracy
Liberty: all people have the ability or freedom to act and think as they choose
Equality: all people possess the same fundamental moral worth that entitles them to fair treatment
Self-Government: ordinary people can rule themselves and do so as political equals

4. Principles of American Democracy
Worth of the Individual: all people are created equal and deserve an opportunity to pursue their potential
Rule of Law: government is subject to recognized and enforced limits
Majority Rule, Minority Rights: the majority rules but the rights of the political minority are protected
Compromise: despite their differences, opposing groups can reach agreements
Citizen Participation: a healthy democracy requires active citizen participation at all levels

5. Free Enterprise In the United States, each person has the right to:
Earn money
Purchase property
Spend income on goods and services
Choose an occupation or change jobs
Determine where to save money and how much
Open new businesses

6. Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) Constitutional issue of due process
Unanimous Supreme Court decision on March 18, 1963
Court decided that the right to counsel was essential to a fair trial, thus, a person who could not afford legal counsel had to be provided with counsel by the state or the national government