The Declaration of Independence

2 events that sparked the enlightenment

1st. The publication of a book called Principia by Issac Newton

2nd. The glorious Revolution (Mary and William)

the actual date the Declaration of Independence was signed

The actual day the Declaration of Independence was signed was July 2nd.

The three things people questioned in the Enlightenment

The people questioned Tradition, Authority, and Reason.

the name of the book Issac newton published

The name of the book was Principia

What Britain did during the glorious revolution

They invited Mary and William to become king and queen but have no political power so they created parliament so the people made all the laws.

the English bill of rights

The English bill of rights was a law passed by parliament to limit the power of the king and queen and set basic civil libersites.

Rights the English Bill of Rights protected

Freedom of speech, freedom to bear arms in self-defense, freedom from cruel and unusual punishment, and the right to petition the king.

John Locke’s ideas about government

That all people are equal and have natural rights, life, liberty, and property.

the pilgrims

They left England seeking religious freedom.

the French and Indian war

A war between France and Britain over territory in North America.

some major events that led to the American Revolution

The stamp act ,Tea act, and transportation act, followed by the Boston massacre, Boston tea party, and the battle of Lexington/Concord

wrote the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson

Why was the Declaration of Independence written

To declare independence from Britain and declaration of our principles of independence.

the Articles of Confederation

They failed due to a lack of strong central government, inability to levy taxes, and difficulties in passing laws.

Why was the Constitution created?

The Constitution was created to establish a stronger federal government, address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, and ensure a system of checks and balances.

How is the declaration of independence formatted?

The Declaration of Independence is formatted as a formal document with a preamble, a list of grievances against the British King, and a conclusion declaring independence.

separation of powers

Dividing the powers of government among three branches so no single branch becomes too powerful.

the three branches of the U.S. government

the legislative, executive, and judicial

the Constitution?

is the supreme law of the United States, outlining the framework of government, the separation of powers, and individual rights.

the first three words of the Constitution

"We the People".

What are checks and balances?

A system that allows each branch to limit the power of the other branches.

Why were the Founding Fathers concerned about too much government power?

They feared tyranny and wanted to protect individual freedoms.

What is the Preamble?

The introduction to the Constitution that explains its goals and purposes.

How many amendments are in the Constitution?

There are 27 amendments in the Constitution.

What is the Bill of Rights?

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution, which protect individual freedoms.

What was the Great Compromise?

An agreement that created a two-house Congress: the Senate and House of Representatives.

What is popular sovereignty?

The idea that people are the source of government power.

What is the Supremacy Clause?

It establishes that the Constitution and federal laws are the supreme law of the land.

What is an amendment?

A change or addition to the Constitution.

Who was James Madison?

James Madison was a major contributor to the Constitution and is often called the “Father of the Constitution” because of his role in writing and supporting it.