As the first British colony to declare independence, the U.S. has become a model for countries seeking to establish a democratic government. Today many countries espouse democracy, but this is a difficult goal to reach. The journey may entail armed conflict, land reform, new economic policies, and a loss in status by a ruling elite. Is democracy necessarily the best option for all countries? Are there political and economic preconditions that must be in place for democracy to operate? From the Series:Capitol Region Roundtable