From America's call for a free press to its embrace of the capitalist system Democracy in
America -- first published in 1835 -- enlightens entertains and endures as a brilliant study
of our national government and character. Philosopher John Stuart Mill called it among the most
remarkable productions of our time. Woodrow Wilson wrote that de Tocqueville's ability to
illuminate the actual workings of American democracy was possibly without rival. For today's
readers de Tocqueville's concern about the effect of majority rule on the rights of
individuals remains deeply meaningful. His shrewd observations about the almost royal
prerogatives of the president and the need for virtue in elected officials are particularly
prophetic. His profound insights into the great rewards and responsibilities of democratic
government are words every American needs to read contemplate and remember.
