Question

In ancient times we were subjects of kings in our country. Today, we are citizens of our country. What is the difference?

Answer 1

In ancient times, we were completely dependant upon the king. Kingship was usually hereditary and passed from one generation to another. The people of the kingdom were under authority of the king and they were subjects of the king. They wholly relied upon the king for any kind of trade permissions or farming tax system. The king had all the authority to put any order in motion in its kingdom without taking any consent from the people.

But now, people are under the democratic rule and hence, they enjoy not only freedom but also the liberty to act. They select and vote for the government to rule over the country. After every 5 years, people have the opportunity to change or continue with the same government. Under the democratic system, citizens of the country hold supreme power of voting. They can freely participate in voting and also enjoy fundamental rights, which was not possible at the time of kings.