Who defined democracy as a form of government of the people, for the people and by the people?
Abraham Lincoln
Understanding the Definition of Democracy
The question asks about the origin of a very famous definition of democracy: "of the people, for the people, by the people". This phrase is widely recognized as a concise way to describe the essence of a democratic government.
A democratic form of government is one where the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodically held free elections.
Identifying the Author of the Famous Quote
The definition "government of the people, for the people, by the people" is attributed to a prominent historical figure.
- Of the people: This suggests that the government originates from the citizens themselves.
- For the people: This implies that the purpose of the government is to serve the interests and well-being of its citizens.
- By the people: This highlights that the government is run by representatives chosen by the citizens, or directly by the citizens in some forms of democracy.
This specific phrase was notably used in a significant historical speech.
Analyzing the Options
Let's look at the options provided:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Known for leading India's independence movement through nonviolent civil disobedience. While a champion of people's rights, this specific quote is not attributed to him.
- Abraham Lincoln: The 16th President of the United States, known for leading the country during the Civil War and abolishing slavery.
- John F. Kennedy: The 35th President of the United States, known for his inspirational leadership and Cold War challenges.
- George Washington: The first President of the United States and commander of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
The famous definition "government of the people, for the people, by the people" was powerfully articulated by Abraham Lincoln in his Gettysburg Address, delivered during the American Civil War in 1863. While the concept existed before, his phrasing made it iconic.
Conclusion on the Definition of Democracy
Based on historical records and common attribution, the individual who defined democracy as a form of government of the people, for the people, and by the people is Abraham Lincoln.
Revision Table: Key Figures and Democracy
| Figure | Relation to Democracy | Key Contribution (Related) |
|---|---|---|
| Mahatma Gandhi | Advocated for self-rule (Swaraj) and people's power. | Nonviolent resistance for independence. |
| Abraham Lincoln | Articulated the famous definition of democracy. | Gettysburg Address, preserving the Union. |
| John F. Kennedy | President of a democratic nation. | Promoted civil rights, space exploration. |
| George Washington | First leader of a modern democratic republic (USA). | Led the American Revolution, presided over Constitutional Convention. |
Additional Information: The Gettysburg Address Context
Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is one of the most famous speeches in American history. It was delivered at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, on November 19, 1863, during the Civil War. In this short speech, Lincoln commemorated the soldiers who died in the Battle of Gettysburg and redefined the purpose of the war as a struggle for the principles of human equality and self-government. The closing lines, which include the phrase "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth," cemented this definition of democracy in the public consciousness.
Important Questions from National Values In Indian Constitution
Democracy is considered to be better than dictatorship as it:
Given below are sets. Set I mentions some terms from the Preamble to the Constitution of India and Set II gives their explanation. Match the item from Set I with explanation from Set II.
Set I
(Terms)
Set II
(Explanation)
(a) Socialism
(i) State ha no religion, it is neither pro nor against any religion
(b) Secularism
(ii) a system in which government is elected and managed by the people of the country
(c) Democacy
(iii) Political idea that all people are equal and resources should be equally shared
(d) Republic
(iv) a nation state that has an elected government and elected leader
Select correct answer from the following options:
Preamble to the Constitution of India mentions different types of Liberty for the people of India. Which types of Liberty, out of these, have direct bearing on the practitioners in the field of education?
Which of the following alternatives are most relevant in the context of Equality of Educational Opportunity?
Choose the correct answer from the code given below.
i) Ensuring equality of good quality education irrespective of caste, colour and religion
ii) Providing financial assistance and other support services to the needy
iii) Ensuring utilization of welfare schemes for low income and educationally disadvantaged groups
iv) Ensuring equal treatment irrespective of capability
Which of the following will not be assented to by Indian Constitution ?
(i) Liberty, equality, fraternity and justice
(ii) Republic and a Democratic society
(iii) Religion, God and Salvation
(iv) Racialism and Regionalism
(v) Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam and Universal brotherhood
