Why do you think Ancient Rome used direct democracy while America uses representative democracy, and what can we learn about how to involve people in making decisions?

Ancient Rome's direct democracy primarily flourished in the early Republic, where citizens gathered to vote on laws and policies. However, as Rome expanded, this model became impractical due to its vast population. Citizens found it challenging to participate directly in governance, leading to a shift towards a representative form, especially during the later Republic and the Empire. This teaches us the importance of tailor-fitting democratic structures to suit the population's size and needs, fostering civic engagement through technology and community initiatives today. In America, representative democracy emerged as a means to efficiently manage larger, diverse populations while ensuring that voices are still heard—often through elected officials who share the constituents’ interests and values. To enhance democratic participation, we can encourage active citizenship through local forums, participatory budgeting, and online platforms where citizens can voice opinions, ensuring that governance feels accessible and engaging, much like town hall meetings in Rome but with a modern twist!