Documents that Shaped the US There are a total of 6 slides with a lot of writing on each! Sorry.

English Influence 1. Magna Carta – Signed 1215 by King John Angry Nobles chased him down to make him sign it. They hated his absolute rule. Guaranteed certain rights (trial by jury) to Nobles. 2. English Bill of Rights – created 1688 Guaranteed free parliament elections, freedom from cruel and unusual punishments, rights of citizens to a fair and speedy trial.

The Declaration of Independence Written by Thomas Jefferson Effective (Officially) July 4th, 1776 1st paragraphs give the arguments for declaring independence Main argument is protect human rights Human Rights are the basic rights all people are entitled to Followed by a formal list of complaints Finally gives a statement of philosophy which gives a basis for the new government.

Articles of Confederation First form of government for the US Created by the Second Continental Congress, Approved by the 13 states, and Began 1781 Main goal was to be very different than British rule. MANY fundamental problems with the Articles. Not a strong central government Laws were difficult to pass (needed 9 of 13 states approval) Could not collect taxes No courts Could not coin money Many others…

Constitution Written at the Constitutional Convention – lead by George Washington New government under the Constitution went into effect in March 1789 It created a Federalism – or a system of government where the government’s powers are split between the national and state gov’t. Also created a Bicameral (two house) legislature for equal representation for all states.

Bill of Rights Several states would NOT ratify (approve) the Constitution without a Bill of Rights added. First 10 amendments to the Constitution, officially added in 1791. These ensure the basic rights for every American. Over 200 proposals were considered.

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