US History Foundational Documents

The Enlightenment

This was an era that took place in the 18th century, in which a culture developed that emphasized questioning tradition and authority. Reason was an important value.

The Principia

A Book about physics written by Newton that helped spark the Enlightenment.

The Glorious Revolution

A revolution that created parliament from popular sovereignty. The monarchs were given less power, and the purpose of government changed.

John Locke

After the Glorious Revolution he shared that the government is meant to protect the peoples’ rights, life, liberty, and property.

Coastal Cities

These were important places for trade in the colonies. There wasn’t much of a reason to go farther away.

The French and Indian War

This war was part of the Seven Years War going from 1754 to 1763. The cost of this war led to more taxation in the colonies.

Battle of Lexington Green

This battle started the Revolutionary War, even though the Americans lost.

Constitutional Congress

This group discussed the uniting of the colonies and their freedom from Britain, eventually leading to the Declaration of Independence.

Declaration of Independence

This document was influenced by the Enlightenment, and declared independence from England though an intro, list of grievances and conclusion. This is not a legal document.