In the 8th century, what came close to a form of direct democracy?

In the 8th century, New England town meetings represented a form of direct democracy where local citizens gathered to discuss and vote on specific issues and policies affecting their community. This practice allowed residents to participate directly in government decisions, rather than relying on elected representatives or officials to make decisions on their behalf.

Such gatherings empowered individuals within the community to express their opinions and have a say in the governance of their town, embodying the principles of direct democracy more effectively than other forms such as city councils, state legislatures, or parliamentary sessions, which typically involve a layer of representation and bureaucratic structure. In contrast, the structure of town meetings encouraged broader civic engagement, where participation and consensus were central to the decision-making process.