Alexis de Tocqueville came to America to observe the new American society. In his book, Democracy in America, Tocqueville identified five values that he found crucial to America’s success as a constitutional republic.
Liberty – protection against a tyrannical government.
Egalitarianism – society of equals.
Individualism – the belief that individuals could rise in society through hard work not hereditary distinctions.
Populism – Everyone has the same right to participate in government.
Laissez-Faire – the government’s “hands off” approach to the economy.