The Strength of American Federal Democracy : Lessons for Global Development
A review of the history of the United States from its colonial origins shows how Americas successful development has always been guided by two basic principles: representative democracy, and a proper division of power between national and subnation...
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| Format: | Working Paper |
| Language: | English en_US |
| Published: |
World Bank, Washington, DC
2015
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| Online Access: | http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/2015/12/25666730/strength-american-federal-democracy-lessons-global-development http://hdl.handle.net/10986/23476 |
| Summary: | A review of the history of the United
States from its colonial origins shows how Americas
successful development has always been guided by two basic
principles: representative democracy, and a proper division
of power between national and subnational governments. The
United States of America was established as an independent
nation by a congress of delegates from 13 provincial
assemblies, each of which consisted of representatives
elected by their communities. Since colonial times, local
democratic rights have attracted immigrants to help build
new towns in the growing nation. Responsible local
governments in America have had the power and the incentive
to make local public investments for developing prosperous
communities. Democratic competition in America has been
strengthened by the ability of successful local leaders to
become competitive candidates for higher offices. But in
spite of Americas example, many nations since the French
Revolution have instead been drawn to centralized democracy,
as national elites may prefer to centralize power around
themselves. Americas successful growth ultimately depended
on its citizens basic understanding that their welfare and
security were enhanced by a balanced federal division of
power between their elected local governments and the higher
sovereign government of their nation. |
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