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1215
Magna Carta
Definition of Magna Carta. 1 : a charter of liberties to which the English barons forced King John to give his assent in June 1215 at Runnymede. 2 : a document constituting a fundamental guarantee of rights and privileges. -
Mayflower Compact
Mayflower Compact. An agreement reached by the Pilgrims on the ship the Mayflower in 1620, just before they landed at Plymouth Rock. The Mayflower Compact bound them to live in a civil society according to their own laws. Written By The Pilgrims -
English Bill of Rights
The English Bill of Rights is an act that the Parliament of England passed on December 16, 1689. The Bill creates separation of powers, limits the powers of the king and queen, enhances the democratic election and bolsters freedom of speech. Limited Government
Rule of Law
Due Process -
Cato's Letters
The Letters are considered a seminal work in the tradition of the Commonwealth men. The 144 essays were published originally in the London Journal, later in the British Journal, condemning corruption and lack of morality within the British political system and warning against tyranny. Collection of newspaper articles
Brought Ideas to the table
Rights
Rule of Law
Written by Anonymous (They had to hide their names as if the King found out who they were, they would be killed.) -
Common Sense
Common Sense challenged the authority of the British government and the royal monarchy. The plain language that Paine used spoke to the common people of America and was the first work to openly ask for independence from Great Britain. Colonial Journalist wrote it
Purpose to gain independence
Self Government
Rights
