american system

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

 we will learn about how the American system of government was designed as a republic based on the principles of representative democracy. Prior to the start of the American revolution, the American revolutionaries agreed on some core principles that necessitated the independence of the colonies from the Monarchy.  

1. List at least four core principles of the American Revolution. How do these core principles apply in our modern Republic? As you further reflect on the nature of a Republic, how is it different from a Democracy? (175 words)
2. What form of government do we actually have? Finally, one might state that a democracy is a government by the people. If you do not engage in the political process, are you a good citizen? Why or Why not? If the majority of citizens do not participate in the political process, is it still a democracy? Why or why not?    (175 words)