All questions of Understanding Democracy for Class 7 Exam

**Transition to Democracy in Medieval Period**
The transition from feudalism to a more democratic system during the Medieval period was a significant shift in political power dynamics.
**Rise of the King**
- Feudal lords held significant power and control over land and resources during the earlier feudal system.
- As the power of feudal lords began to decline, the king emerged as a central figure with more authority and control over the kingdom.
**Empowerment of Common People**
- The rise of trade and commerce led to the growth of towns and cities where common people, such as merchants and craftsmen, gained wealth and influence.
- Common people started to demand more rights and representation in decision-making processes, leading to a more inclusive political system.
**Establishment of Democracy**
- The shift in power from feudal lords to the king and common people laid the foundation for the establishment of a democratic system.
- Democracy is a political system where power is vested in the hands of the people, either directly or through elected representatives.
- The transition to democracy allowed for more participation, representation, and accountability in governance, marking a significant departure from the feudal system.
In conclusion, the transition from feudalism to democracy during the Medieval period marked a pivotal moment in political history, where power shifted from feudal lords to the king and common people, leading to the establishment of a more inclusive and representative political system.

Parliament's Role in Strengthening Democracy
- The Glorious Revolution of 1688 in England shifted power from the monarchy to Parliament, particularly the House of Commons.
- Parliament played a crucial role in holding the ruler accountable for their actions and decisions.
- The Bill of Rights 1689, which resulted from the Glorious Revolution, limited the powers of the monarchy and established the supremacy of Parliament.
- This shift of power to Parliament helped in establishing a system of checks and balances, ensuring that the ruler was accountable to a governing body representing the people.
- The events of the Glorious Revolution paved the way for the development of a constitutional monarchy in England, where the monarch's powers were limited by laws and regulations set by Parliament.
- Ultimately, the strengthening of Parliament's role in governance after the Glorious Revolution contributed to the roots of democracy by ensuring that the ruler was no longer an absolute authority, but rather subject to the laws and decisions made by elected representatives.

The essence of democracy, exemplified by India's status as one of the largest democracies in the world, lies in people's participation in decision-making through free and fair elections. In a democratic system, citizens have the right to choose their representatives through periodic elections, ensuring that governance reflects the will of the people. This participatory process is fundamental to upholding the principles of democracy and fostering a government by the people, for the people.

Indian leaders chose to frame a Constitution after gaining independence to provide a comprehensive framework for governance and protect citizens' rights. The Constitution of India serves as the supreme law of the country, outlining the structure of government, defining fundamental rights, and establishing the principles that guide the nation's functioning. It reflects the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement, was a significant civil disobedience movement launched in India during World War II, demanding an end to British rule. Led by Mahatma Gandhi, this movement played a vital role in India's struggle for independence. Through massive protests and nonviolent resistance, Indians aimed to oust the British from the country.

The ancient form of democracy practiced in Athens was direct democracy. In this system, all eligible citizens were able to directly participate in making laws and decisions concerning the governance of the city-state. This direct involvement distinguished it from representative democracy or other forms of government.

The decline of feudalism in Europe and the subsequent shift in power dynamics towards the king and common people occurred during the Renaissance period. This transition marked a pivotal moment in European history, as feudal structures gave way to new forms of governance and societal organization, setting the stage for significant political and social transformations in the centuries to come.

The Renaissance movement in Europe witnessed the revival of art, literature, science, and philosophy, leading to the growth and implementation of democratic ideals. This cultural rebirth brought about a renewed interest in classical learning and humanism, fostering an environment where democratic principles and values began to take root and influence societal structures.

The American War of Independence, also known as the American Revolutionary War, resulted in the adoption of a written constitution with a Bill of Rights in the United States. This foundational document enshrined essential rights that could not be violated by the government, ensuring individual liberties and protections for citizens.

The earliest known form of democracy dates back to the 6th century BCE in Athens, ancient Greece. This form of democracy was known as direct democracy, where all eligible citizens gathered to participate in decision-making processes and governance.

In indirect democracy, elected representatives play a crucial role in making decisions on behalf of the citizens who have elected them. These representatives are entrusted with the responsibility of representing the interests and concerns of the people, participating in legislative processes, and making decisions that align with the will of the electorate. Elected officials serve as the voice of the people in the governance process, translating citizen preferences into actionable policies and laws.

In ancient Athens' direct democracy, citizens assembled in one place primarily to participate in the process of making laws and decisions regarding the governance of the city-state. This direct participation of citizens in the decision-making process was a fundamental aspect of the democratic system practiced in ancient Greece.

Direct democracy involves individuals directly participating in governance processes, such as making laws, conducting trials, voting on important issues, and electing or dismissing officials without the need for intermediaries like representatives. This form of democracy promotes a more hands-on approach to governance, allowing for direct citizen engagement in decision-making processes.

The form of democracy where citizens directly gather to make laws and decisions is known as direct democracy. In this system, eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate directly in the decision-making processes of the government, distinguishing it from other forms of democracy where representatives are elected to make decisions on behalf of the populace.

The primary purpose of a democratic republic, as chosen by India post-independence, is to ensure the rule of law and protect individual rights. In a democratic republic, power rests with the people who elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. This system aims to uphold democratic principles such as equality, freedom, and justice for all citizens.