1. Ideas Behind the Three Revolutions

2. John Locke (1632-1704) Enlightenment philosopher A letter Concerning Toleration (1689) -Believed in religious tolerance as a benefit to society. Two Treatises of Government (1689) -Social Contract Theory -Belief in Natural Rights -Including Right to Revolution -Separation of Powers

3. Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) Drafted the Declaration of Independence 1776 -Declared independence from Great Britain citing violation of natural rights. Influenced by Enlightenment philosophers like Locke. Virginia Statutes for Religious Freedom Believed a Democratic Republic could work because Americans were self- sufficient and independent.

4. James Madison 1751-1856 The Virginia Plan –Creation of a bicameral legislature. House of Representation (by population) Senate (two representatives per state) Drafted the Bill of Rights (First 10 Amendments to the Constitution)

5. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) Theory of Natural Human Social Contract (1762) –The idea that government is derived from the people –General Will of the people