Blueprints for a Democracy The Charters of the VA Company of London The VA Declaration of Rights The VA Statute of Religious Freedom The Declaration of Independence BEGIN For Teachers: Objectives Follow-up Activities

The Charters of the Virginia Company of London King James I gave a charter to the Virginia Company of London. April 10, 1606

Purpose of the Charters They authorized the Virginia Company to start a colony. They allowed for a representative government. They gave the colonists the same rights as Englishmen.

The Virginia Declaration of Rights Written By: George Mason June 12, 1776

The Declaration of Rights This was an introduction to the Virginia Constitution George Mason believed all Virginians should have certain rights.

Virginia Declaration of Rights: Freedom of Religion Right to a fair trial Freedom of the press

Thomas Jefferson used the Virginia Declaration of Rights as a basis for the first 10 amendments to the United States Constitution. This was a giant step toward freedom and Democracy.

Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom Written by: Thomas Jefferson

Reasons for Statute Colonial Virginians attended the Church of England As Virginia grew, many people came to live in the state who were not of English ancestry. Should the new state continue to support a state church? ****** Jefferson argued that religious beliefs should be solely matters of individual conscience and immune from any interference by the state. 1786

What did the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom do? Separated church and state Established religious freedom

The Basis for the First Amendment Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of press; or the right of people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

The Declaration of Independence Written by: Thomas Jefferson July 4, 1776

The Declaration of Independence as it appeared in the “Pennsylvania Packet” July 8, 1776

Reason for Declaration The Declaration of Independence explained to the world why the colonies should break away from England. FOR EXAMPLE: Taxation without Representation Refusal to pass laws needed by colonies Forced to quarter soldiers in homes

“We hold these truths to be self-evident…”

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