The lifespan of a democracy can vary widely based on the historical period, region, and system in place, but political scientists often estimate that democracies last around 200 years. In the 20th century, many democracies emerged following colonial independence; however, some were short-lived, falling to coups, authoritarian regimes, or civil conflicts.  Take a look at a few examples:

Ancient Athens: Widely considered the birthplace of democracy, Athens operated a direct democracy from 508 BCE to 322 BCE, lasting about 186 years before succumbing to Macedonian control. Although Athenian democracy was influential, it ultimately could not withstand external and internal pressures.

The Roman Republic: Founded in 509 BCE, the Roman Republic lasted for nearly 482 years, functioning with a system of elected officials and checks and balances until it transitioned into the Roman Empire under Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. Although it wasn’t a pure democracy, the Republic became a model for many future systems.

The Weimar Republic (Germany): Formed in the wake of World War I, Germany’s Weimar Republic (1919–1933) faced immense economic hardship, social unrest, and political extremism, leading to its collapse after only 14 years. This turmoil paved the way for Adolf Hitler’s rise to power.

The United States: The U.S. has maintained its democratic system since 1789, making it one of the longest-lasting modern democracies. Over more than 230 years, it has weathered significant challenges, including a civil war, civil rights struggles, and political division.

Chile: Chile enjoyed a stable democracy for much of the 20th century, until a military coup in 1973 led by General Augusto Pinochet toppled the government. Chile returned to democratic governance in 1990, showing the resilience of democratic aspirations even after interruptions.

Ultimately, democracies face unique pressures, and while some withstand these challenges, others do not. Factors like strong institutions, economic stability, and a shared commitment to democratic principles play essential roles in determining whether democracies endure or give way to authoritarian alternatives.