Ideas behind the Constitution Part 1

Ancient Rome Liked the idea that everybody participated and took part in decisions and elections of officials Did not like that people became more interested in luxury and comfort and less interested in public service This led to a dictatorship and the downfall of the Roman Empire!

Two historic documents 1215 – Magna Carta (King John) British nobles forced him to sign and follow rules just like everyone else 1689 – English Bill of Rights (William and Mary) after the Glorious Revolution Led to the following principles: Citizens have rights which govt. must protect Even head of govt. has to follow laws Taxes can’t be raised w/o okay by the people Elections held frequently People accused of crimes have a right to trial by jury, right to habeas corpus (have to be told what you are accused of) People have the right to private property

Teachings of Enlightenment John Locke – rights to life, liberty, and property. Also felt govt. was an agreement btw. ruler and ruled. Baron de Montesquieu – believed in separation of powers (executive, legislative, and judicial branches must balance each other)

Representative Traditions and the Declaration of Independence Virginia House of Burgesses and Mayflower Compact are two examples of early representative government in North America. Likewise, all 13 colonies had charters that listed powers and limits of government under the British, which led to the Declaration of Independence against abuses by King George III and written by Thomas Jefferson.