The concept of referenda has existed for hundreds of years, coming into official use towards the end of the 19th century. There is evidence that the 'poll of the people' was used by William the Conqueror and by the Vatican in medieval times to affirm leaderships. Tacitus in 'Germania' suggests that Principes should decide minor questions, but great matters should be decided by the people. This idea remains today, where in some countries it generally assumed that a referendum be held when there might be a change to the constitutional law. …
