Defining and Debating America’s Founding Ideals What are America’s Founding Ideals, and why are they important?

Equality- The ideal situation in which all people are treated the same and valued equally 1776: Christianity taught all people were equal, rejected inequality in Europe, yet some had slaves, women unequal Today: Equality expanded, but some argue that “equality of condition” needs to be provided for all

Rights- Powers or privileges granted to people either by an agreement among themselves or by law 1776: Jefferson argued in favor of natural rights for all humankind Today: Americans have many rights found in Const. & Bill of Rights. However some argue for an expansion of rights

Liberty- Political freedom, civil liberty, moral & religious freedom, opposite of slavery 1776: Important to colonists & they fought for freedom. However, 1/5 of the population was enslaved Today: Provides the ability to make choices but where should we set limits?

Opportunity- The chance for people to pursue their hopes and dreams 1776: Strong belief in opportunity, helped encourage new settlers Today: Still brings new comers, some question whether true opportunity is available to all

Democracy- System of govt based on the consent of the governed 1776: Used on local level during colonial period. Some wondered whether it could work on a large scale & who should speak for governed? Today: Citizens over the age of 18 can now vote, yet not everyone participates