U.S. History Foundational Documents

The Enlightenment

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

July 4th, 1776

This day declared Americas independence from Great Britain and King George the 3rd. The Declaration of Independence was signed this day.

Natural Rights

Rights people were born with. Given from God. The three ones are Life, Liberty, and Property.

John Locke

This person was a great writer, thinker, and philosopher. Wrote a text called, “Two Treatise on Government.” That text was about natural rights people are born with.

13 English Colonies

Pieces of land on the east coast of America that King George the 3rd ruled over. These were established at different times and by different people. Because the king of Great Britain ruled over them, British laws were enforced. However, if you lived here, it was a great deal of freedom.

The French and Indian War

During the year 1754 to the year 1763, Britain and France were fighting a war over territory in America. This war led to the American Revolutionary War years later. Also known as the 7 Years War.

No Taxation Without Representation!

This saying was said by American colonists protesting against the British for having them pay more money for goods including paper goods, tea, and shipping. The British needed money and were in a lot of debt after the French and Indian War.

Paul Revere

After the Boston Massacre, this man convinced that it was actually the British soldiers fault and that they’re cruel. He rode on a horse known as the Midnight Ride and said the famous line, “The British are coming!”

Thomas Jefferson

This person was very intelligent and talented in many things. They were a strong writer who wrote the 1st draft of the Declaration of Independence.

The Articles of Confederation

This document was published in 1777 and was enacted in 1781. It listed that the 13 states would have a weak federal government, but strong state governments. A few years later though, Americans realized that this document didn’t work.

The Revolutionary War

Between 1775 and 1783, Americans fought for their freedom and independence from Great Britain. Leading up to this event there was the Boston Massacre, Boston Tea Party, and the Battle of Lexington Green which ultimately started this event. It was for a price. Many Americans died.