ABSTRACT
The period since the Civil War has, broadly speaking, been characterized by an expansion of the electorate and by the construction of machinery for closer control over the acts and agencies of the government by the voter. Great reliance was placed upon the argument touching the relation of government and force. The theoretical and practical tendencies regarding popular participation in the work of government were conflicting. The basis of the democracy was broadened by extending the circle over the line of sex, and first broadened and then narrowed along the line of color. The electors' duties were diminished by the reduction of the number of elective offices, and increased somewhat by the development of the direct primary, together with the initiative, referendum and recall. Aside from the race question, the tendency was toward broadening the electorate and increasing direct popular control over the acts and agencies of government.
