U.S. History - Foundational Documents

The enlightenment

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

The glorious revolution

1603-1688 England was ruled by horrible kings (a change of power in England). William and Mary ruled the country but with little power.

The English bill of rights (1689)

The foundation of the constitutional monarchy .

John Locke

A great English philosopher who thought the constitutional monarchy was the best government and he believed “the job of the government is to protect the right of the people.” He believed people’s rights were life, liberty and property.

The principia

Issac newton published a book in 1687, a book a logic, that started the glorious revolution.

Taxes

Then the British government started taxing the American colonists because they had no money. (1760s). The colonists argued no taxation without representation.

The French and Indian war (1754-1763)

Britain vs. France over territory in North America, and happened near the western frontier of Pennsylvania. The English won by outspending the French in terms of men and material.

April 19th 1775

British went after one of the wealthiest men in the American colonies, John Hancock, which started the American revolution and the declaration of independence was written one year later.

Continental congress

Asked the king if they could have the same rights as the English (he refused) - this united colonies.

The declaration of independence

July 4th 1776 US formally declared independence from Great Britain.

Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin and John Adam’s.

Main authors of the Declaration of Independence.

Beginning of Declaration of Independence

… that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation-the reasons. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness- Jefferson. Reason and purpose of the government

Middle of the Declaration of Independence (list of grievances)

“For imposing taxes on us without our consent” -harm of England

Conclusion of the Declaration of Independence

Declare the states are free, independent states.

Articles of confederation

Weak federal government-strong state governments (led to many problems)

The north west ordinance (under the articles of confederation)

60,000 free inhabitants can crate a new state

Bill of rights providing religious freedom, legislative assembly based on population and trial by jury

Public education was mandated by the ordinance

Independence hall in Philadelphia

Where the convention was held to write the constitution (116 day discussion) (September 17th, 1787)

Ben Franklin

Who said this? - “we have given you a republic if you can keep it”

John Locke

This political philosopher was inspired by the glorious revolution.

John Locke

This political philosopher inspired Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence.

Separation of powers

Baron de Montesquieu- “ the spirt of the laws” (1748 ;English edition 1750)

“Absolute power corrupts absolutely”

Separation of powers

3 branches: legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Legislative branch

Makes the laws

Executive branch

Enforces the laws

Judicial branch

Interprets the laws

Republicans and democrats

Was not factored into the constitution and plays with power in the three branches.

Affordable care act

Everyone has to have health care, if not you were fined.

King James the second

Original king of England who the English chased out of their country

George Washington

Started the conflict of the French and Indian war because he saw France as a threat.

Checks and balances

A system where each branch can limit the power of another so one doesn’t gain to much power or control.