Our English Heritage Chapter 2 Section 1

Nobles- important people in England Key Vocabulary Monarch- king or queen Nobles- important people in England Parliament- the legislative body in England (the group that makes laws).

How did England influence the U.S. government? Magna Carta Parliament Glorious Revolution English Bill of Rights English Common Law

What did the Magna Carta do? King John treated noble people in England poorly, so in 1215 the nobles forced him to sign the Magna Carta. What did the Magna Carta do? It was a contract that limited the power of the monarch and gave rights to nobles. It said that no one (not even the king) was above the law.

In the late 1300’s it became known as “Parliament.” King Henry III met regularly with a group of nobles to get advice and help make decisions. In the late 1300’s it became known as “Parliament.” It is still the lawmaking body in England. Parliament

The Glorious Revolution, 1688 The first peaceful transfer of power in England’s history. King James II was removed by Parliament and replaced by King William and Queen Mary. Parliament proved it was more powerful than the king.

The English Bill of Rights 1689 It made Parliament’s power equal with the king and declared members would be freely elected. It increased the rights of every citizen and decreased the power of the monarch. ** What the Magna Carta did for the nobles, the English Bill of Rights did for all people.

English Common Law It is the law that governs England. It is based on customs and past court decisions instead of written laws.

Colonial Influences on Government A. The colonists believed… The ruler was not above the law People deserved a voice in government People should be given basic rights

B. Jamestown 1607 the 1st English settlement It was first run by a governor and a council. The colonists elected two representatives from each county to meet with the governor. This group became the House of Burgesses, the first American legislature in 1619. *BEGINNING of self government!!

C. Mayflower Compact In 1620, Pilgrims came to America on the Mayflower. They signed an agreement called the Mayflower Compact that said… …that the government would make “just and equal laws…for the general good of the colony.” …it set up a direct-democracy where all men would vote and the majority would rule.

D. Colonial Governments By 1733, each of the 13 colonies had its own government. Each government had a governor and an elected legislature.