Introduction

When America first defined itself as a separate nation by means of the Declaration of Independence it was established that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” and that in order to protect these rights, governments would be instituted “among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” The principles of equality and justice were emphasized by the Founding Fathers, along with the necessity of the people's approval. Such was a uniquely democratic nation formed. America stood as a beacon, whose egalitarian principles set it apart from other nations as a place where the power was placed in the hands of the governed body, making the success of the nation dependent on civic participation and empowerment. This is the idea that “every citizen has the means to actively engage in the public sphere, including political processes” (“Civic Participation...”). However, over time the United States seems to have lost touch with this key ideal that was so heavily emphasized upon it's foundation.