How did democratic ideals and key documents shape the development of government in the United States?

(review) MAGNA CARTA

1215

Written by a group of English Noblemen

King had absolute power and abused it.

Took some power away from the King.

said: king had to obey the laws (Rule of Law)

First document to limit the power of the government.

All Men should have the right to justice and a fair trial All Men should have the right to justice and a fair trial! Penalty should = crime

property could not be taken without permission

King John and the Signing of the Magna Carta

Charter of the Virginia Company of London

granted and signed in 1606 by King James of England

colonist arrived in… 1607

called the colony… Jamestown

a business agreement outline of government

Settlers mined for gold, silver (1/5th ) and copper (1/15th) Settlers mined for gold, silver (1/5th ) and copper (1/15th). King got part.

colonists had same freedoms and rights as citizens in England important colonists had same freedoms and rights as citizens in England important

MAYFLOWER COMPACT 1620

What do you know?

written & signed by 41 Pilgrims on the Mayflower

Signing of Mayflower Compact

established a government by the people (Self-Governing/Consent of the Governed)

Pilgrims could decide on laws and choose leaders (Popular Sovereignty)

everyone equal under the law (Rule of Law)

Use system of Majority Rule

ENGLISH BILL OF RIGHTS

Written in 1689 and signed by King William and Queen Mary

William & Mary

was a model for the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution important was a model for the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution important

Limited King’s power and gave Parliament the power (right) to…

make laws, raise taxes, control the nation’s army

Granted fundamental (basic) individual rights to all English citizens.

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

Written by Thomas Jefferson

July 4, 1776 created by representatives of 13 colonies

Declared colonies independent (free) from English rule

Stated grievances (complaints) against George III of Great Britain

Affirmed “certain unalienable rights” Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness

People have a right and duty to change a government that violates their rights

VIRGINIA DECLARATION OF RIGHTS

June 12,1776 written by George Mason

George Mason

was a model for the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution important was a model for the Bill of Rights of the U.S. Constitution important

(guaranteed) trial by jury, equal rights, no tax without consent, no cruel punishment

created three branches government

VIRGINIA STATUTE OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

1785 Written by Thomas Jefferson

Gave the “Natural Right” of Religious Freedom

that means: “freedom of religious beliefs and opinions”

VIRGINIA CONSTITUTION

Virginia General Assembly created a constitution in 1776.

Created 3 branches of Government in Virginia Separate branches= limits on power

Influenced structure of US government in Constitution “The Virginia Plan” created 3 national branches of govt.

ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION

Written: 1777-1778 1st Continental Congress Lasted until 1787 (1789)

First US government: a ONE-HOUSE legislature called Congress

Weaknesses: 1. Congress had limited powers, could not enforce laws or tax. 2. State governments were too powerful