American Government Lecture: Precursors to the Constitution

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to the foundations of the American government, focusing on the precursors to the Constitution and key historical figures and events.

British American Colonies

The 13 colonies in North America that existed before the United States became independent.

House of Burgesses

The first legislative assembly in the American colonies, established in Virginia.

John Locke

An influential Enlightenment thinker who argued for natural rights and government by consent.

Robert Filmer

An advocate for the divine right of kings, arguing that monarchs inherit their authority from Biblical authority.

Consent of the Governed

A political theory stating that government's legitimacy comes from the people's agreement to be governed.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, creating a weak central government among the states.

Shays' Rebellion

An uprising in 1786-1787 by farmers protesting economic injustices and lack of government action under the Articles of Confederation.

Inalienable Rights

Rights that cannot be taken away or denied, as stated in the Declaration of Independence.

Deism

A philosophical belief that emphasizes reason and observation of the natural world, often viewed as a metaphorical understanding of God.

Preamble

The introductory statement of the Declaration of Independence that summarizes its principles.