George Washington and the Foundations of American Democracy

George Washington

Leader of the Continental Army during the Revolution.

Battle of Saratoga

Turning point in 1777; France joins the war.

Yorktown

Final battle in 1781; Cornwallis defeated.

Treaty of Paris 1783

Agreement ending the Revolutionary War.

Articles of Confederation

First governing document; weak central government.

Constitutional Convention 1787

Meeting to create a new constitution.

Federalists

Supported a strong federal government and new constitution.

Radical Democrats

Opposed strong federal government; feared loss of rights.

Electoral College

System for electing the president; indirect voting.

3/5 Compromise

Determined how slaves counted for representation.

Checks and Balances

System ensuring no branch overpowers another.

Bill of Rights

First ten amendments protecting individual liberties.

French Absolutism

Government system with absolute monarchy in France.

Divine Right of Kings

Belief that monarchs derive authority from God.

Three Estates

Social hierarchy in France: Clergy, Nobility, Third Estate.

Louis XIV

French king; epitome of absolute monarchy.

Louis XVI

Weak king during the French Revolution.

Marie Antoinette

Queen of France; out of touch with citizens.

Debt Crisis

France's debt reached 4 billion; unsustainable.

GDP Servicing Debt

France spent 50% of GDP on debt servicing.

American Revolution

Colonial revolt against British rule for independence.

French Revolution

Revolution against monarchy; inspired by American ideals.

Military Genius

Washington's strategy focused on time and will.