1. Some events leading up to the American Revolution Sugar Act (1764) Stamp Act (1765) Townshend Acts (1767) Boston Massacre (1770) Boston Tea Party (1773) Intolerable Acts (1774)

2. The model of the English Bill of Rights (1689) Ends the reign of James II by referring to him as “the late King James the Second” Thirteen grievances Thirteen rights and liberties Declaration that William and Mary are the new king and queen

3. The “English Constitution” There isn’t one English law is a set of laws, customs, and traditions, hence “customary” law, as opposed to statutory law (as in France, after Napoleon)

4. Thomas Paine (1737-1809)

5. Common Sense (1776) Government is a necessary evil Man surrenders up part of his property to furnish means for the protection of the rest Monarchy Monarchy is against God (note Paine’s use of scriptural authority to make his point) Paine claims to use facts, plain arguments, common sense Recommendations for a Congress (note social contract language)

6. Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)

7. Declaration of Independence (1776)

8. Declaration of Independence (1776), structure Postulates (a priori): “We hold these truths to be self-evident...” Grievances (27) Declaration (our statement here makes it true)

9. Note: gun rights English Bill of Rights: “By raising and keeping a standing army within this kingdom in time of peace without consent of Parliament...” American Declaration of Independence: “He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures

10. Second Amendment