Final answer:
Democrats are characterized by a diverse coalition of voters, restraint on federal support for economic development, and a belief in the power of the people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The defining traits of Democrats include:
- Coalition among diverse voters: The Democratic Party gained power in the 1930s with the support of low socio-economic status voters in northern and midwestern cities who were more religiously and ethnically diverse compared to Republican supporters. However, the Democratic Party in the southern United States had maintained dominance since the Civil War but was more evangelical and less tolerant on racial matters.
- Restraint on federal support for economic development: Democrats supported a robust nationalism on constitutional issues while exercising some restraint on federal support for economic development. They distrusted the wealthy and powerful who possessed undue economic power.
- Belief in the power of the people: Democrats believed in the power of the people and that the will of the majority should reign supreme. They wanted the freedom to pursue individual interests with minimal government interference.