The 20th century witnessed a remarkable evolution in the concept and practice of democracy, shaped by diverse political, social, and economic transformations across the globe. The century began with democracy largely confined to a few Western nations, but by its end, it had become the dominant political ideology, embraced or at least acknowledged worldwide. This evolution can be understood in phases, marked by critical events and theoretical developments.

Early 20th Century: Limited and Elite Democracy

At the turn of the century, democracy was practiced primarily in Western Europe and North America, with suffrage limited to certain classes, often excluding women, the working class, and racial minorities. The liberal democratic model, rooted in Enlightenment ideals, emphasized individual freedoms, the rule of law, and representative government. However, it was more an elite democracy, catering to propertied classes. Political theorists like Max Weber highlighted the role of bureaucratic rationalization, while elites maintained control over decision-making processes.

Interwar Period: Crisis and Expansion

The interwar period (1918–1939) was marked by a crisis of liberal democracy. The aftermath of World War I, the Great Depression, and the rise of totalitarian regimes in Italy, Germany, and the Soviet Union challenged democratic ideals. Fascism and communism presented competing models of governance, questioning the effectiveness of