The Philosophical and Historical Foundations of American Government

These flashcards cover key historical documents and philosophical influences that shaped American government.

Magna Carta

A charter signed by King John of England that limited the power of the monarchy and established the rule of law.

Due Process of Law

Legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person, ensuring fair treatment.

Petition of Right

A document that further limited the English king's power, particularly regarding taxation and imprisonment.

English Bill of Rights

Established parliamentary supremacy and laid down rights such as freedom of speech in Parliament and prohibition of cruel punishment.

Mayflower Compact

An agreement signed by the Pilgrims establishing self-governance and majority rule in the New World.

Virginia Declaration of Rights

Outlines the natural rights of citizens and influenced both the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.

Thomas Hobbes

Philosopher who argued for a strong central authority to prevent chaos and believed in a social contract.

John Locke

Philosopher known for natural rights and the concept that government should protect those rights; heavily influenced American democracy.

Separation of Powers

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people.

The Great Awakening

A religious revival movement that emphasized individual relationship with God and questioned traditional authority.

Checks and Balances

System in which each branch of government can limit the powers of the other branches to prevent abuse.