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Period: Jan 1, 1200 to
Constitutional Influences
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Feb 17, 1215
Magna Carta
A document from English nobles that limited powers of the king and basically stated that even he is not above the law. Big ideas were limited government and rights. -
Mayflower Compact
A document that signified the colonist's agreement to self-govern. Big idea was self-government. -
English Bill of Rights
A document that expanded the rights of Parliament and the people. Big idea was rights. -
Montesquieu
Born 1689. A baron. Came up with separation of powers, checks and balances, and believed in liberty. Big idea was separation of powers. -
Cato's Letters
Editorials that argued against the king. Writer used fake names "Cato the Elder"" and "Cato the Younger". Big idea was freedom of expression. -
John Locke
(29 August 1632 – 28 October 1704) Philosopher and political scientist. Came up with tabula rasa, natural and social rights, state of nature, and social contract. Big idea was natural rights. -
Rousseau
(28 June 1712 – 2 July 1778) Believed in democracy. Created general will and majority rule. Big ideas were direct and representive democracy, general will, and majority rule. -
Common Sense
A pamphlet that explained the arguments for independence in simple words for common people.
