1. Standard
Compare the major ideas of philosophers and their effect on the democratic revolutions in England, America & France.

2. Thomas Hobbes The Social Contract
Published: Leviathan 1651
Thought people were naturally wicked and evil (lived through the English Civil War).
Thought people needed a strong ruler to maintain order.
S/C People give up a little liberty (freedom) to a government that provides organization (law and order)
Best type of government: Monarchy, King

3. John Locke Natural Rights
Published: Two Treatise of Government 1690
Thought people had the ability to reason and make good choices ie. Be reasonable in society.
Governments get power from the-
Consent of the Governed
Thought all people had-
Natural Rights- life, liberty and property
Governments are created to protect your Natural Rights
If they fail to protect your Natural Rights people have the right overthrow

4. Baron de Montesquieu Separation of Powers
Published The Spirit of the Laws 1748
Governments should have three branches: executive, legislative & judicial
Each branch should have a check and balance on each other
Thought this system would prevent any one group from gaining complete control

5. Jean-Jacques Rousseau Majority Rule
Published The Social Contract 1762
Concept: The General Will- majority rule
Majority should work for the common good
Good view of human nature
Best type of government: Democracy

6. Thomas Jefferson
Farmer (unsuccessful), Lawyer, Congressman, Governor, Ambassador, Secretary of State, V.P. and 3rd President,
Major accomplishment-The Louisiana Purchase 1803.
Wished to be remembered for:
Declaration of Independence
Religious Freedom
University of Virginia

7. James Madison 1751-1838 Jefferson’s friend and neighbor
Wrote Constitution of Virginia 1776, Leader of Virginian Assembly to the Continental Congress., Member of Constitutional Convention- Father of the Constitution, Secretary of State, 4th President.