Re-examines the history of democracy, broadening the traditional view with previously unexplored examples This substantial reference work critically re-examines the history of democracy, from ancient history to possible directions it may take in the future. 44 chapters explore the origins of democracy and explore new – and sometimes surprising – examples from around the world. Each of the 9 parts introduces the period, followed by 3 to 7 case studies. The first book to study lesser-known histories of democracy alongside familiar examplesIncludes historical accounts from leading scholars that document the development of democratic practices in their area or epoch of interestContributors include Jack Goody, John Keane, Larbi Sadiki, James Anderson, John Fisher and Seymour DrescherExamples include ancient India, medieval Venetia, Native America, Iraqis, ancient Athens, Women's Suffrage and the Anti-Apartheid movement