A system similar to that of the instalation of the dukes of ancient Carantania, were the "good people" represented the people and confirmed the duke. The "good people" elected a person who they considered the most capable (regardless whether he was noble or not) as judge who asked everyone present whether the candidate for duke is good or not for the country. The whole installation of dukes is a long ritual and I will describe it further in history forum when I have time. It is certainly unique in European history and Americans didn't miss a chance to steal it and deform it as they have done with many other European traditions.
From declaration of independence.
Of course, ancient Slovenian 'democracy' had nothing to do with American democracy we know today.