Forming a New Nation

Magna Carta , 1215

Jun 15, 1215

Limited the power of the KIng ; guaranteed the right to a trail by jury

English BIll of Rights

Dec 16, 1689

frequent elections ; guaranteed right to bear arms, forbade cruel and unusual punishment ; trail by jury

3/5 Compromise

Jul 12, 1787

slaves were counted as 3/5ths of a white citizen for purposes of representation and taxation

7 Principles of the Constitution

Sep 17, 1787

Limited Government - everyone, even govt. officials, are subject to the law
Popular Sovereignty - the government was created by the people in order to govern themselves ; majority rules
Republicanism - the desires of the people are represented in government by elected representatives
Federalism - power of the government is shared between the states and the national government

7 Principles of the Constitution (cont'd)

Sep 17, 1787

Separation of Powers - splits the powers of the govt. into 3 branches
Checks and Balances - each branch makes sure the others are working the way they are supposed to
Individual Rights - Bill of Rights protects personal freedoms against the powers of the government

Bill of Rights

Dec 15, 1791

1st-Freedom of speech,press,religion,petition,and assembly
2nd-Right to bear arms
3rd-Protection from quartering of troops
4th-Protection from unreasonable search and seizures
5th-Protection from double jeopardy and self-incrimination
6th-Right to speedy and public trial by jury in criminal cases
7th-Right to a jury in civil cases
8th-No cruel or unusual punishment or excessive bail
9th-Protection of rights not stated in the Constitution
10th-Powers not listed belong to the states and/or people