1. Documents that Shaped the US
There are a total of 6 slides with a lot of writing on each!
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2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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…

5. 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.

6. 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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