What led us to the idea of limited government?

What is limited government? Limited Government = gov’t is not all powerful and most follow certain established guidelines What are some ways our gov’t is limited today? Constitution – they are bound to follow it Representative Democracy – they are chosen by the people Republic – people hold the ultimate power

Remember Remember for many years the colonists considered themselves to be British, so many of their ideas for gov’t came from their British roots. How did Britain limit the powers of the monarch over time and slowly give the citizens more freedoms/liberties?

1st attempts at limiting the English Monarchy In 1215 Britain’s Rebel Barons forced the King John to sign the Magna Carta Magna Carta 1215 – 1st time the king’s powers were limited. Prevented abuse of his powers (arbitrary acts) and gave the people certain rights like – being informed of why they were being punished (prevented illegal arrest). The King was no longer free to do EVERYTHING he pleased, but it didn’t really limit the monarch too much. Still revered as a the foundation or cornerstone for modern British freedoms.

Making ground for liberties In 1628 King Charles asked the British Parliament for more money to support the ongoing wars. Since Parliament was the body that had the power to tax, they could increase taxes for the King. Parliament was upset that Charles was acting outside of law (and the Magna Carta). Parliament refused to provide money unless the King agreed to sign the Petition of Rights. Charles refused, and actually lashed out against the House of Commons, but ultimately, he had to gave in. Petition of Rights 1628 – Guaranteed citizens such rights as a trial by jury, due process, etc This is where we get some of our ideas of Due Process, and no quartering of troops.

The Big One In 1688 the Glorious Revolution occurred in British = the was the PEACEFUL overthrow of King James Religious conflicts led to William overthrowing James 1689 Parliament offered the Throne to William and Mary of Orange. However, Parliament said they could only have the position if they agreed to sign the English Bill of Rights Established Parliamentary Democracy – Monarch no longer absolute English Bill of Rights 1689 – established more protections of citizens rights – Said to be one of the most important documents on people’s rights in England

Why so important Each of these documents somehow extended People’s rights and limited the Government’s rights We hold these ideas very close and important in our government today