Colonial Life
What was a key reason many Europeans came to the American colonies?
To escape religious persecution
What is the concept of "natural rights" ?
Hint: The right to ________ , ___________, and the pursuit of _____________.
The right to LIFE, LIBERTY, and the PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS.
Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson
What is the role of the JUDICIAL BRANCH in the U.S. government?
To interpret laws and settle conflicts ("Judicial Review")
Which group of individuals played key roles in the founding of the United States?
The Founding Fathers
What did colonists value that shaped their views on government?
Independence and self-reliance
Why did many founding fathers support limiting government power?
To prevent corruption
What is the Preamble of the Declaration of Independence?
The introduction explaining why the Declaration of Independence was written.
What is the main purpose of the system of checks and balances?
To limit the power of each branch or to prevent one from gaining too much political power.
Who was John Locke, and how did his ideas influence U.S. government?
He was a philosopher who believed in natural rights and the social contract.
How did most colonists live in the 1770's?
They were self-sufficient, raising food, making clothes, and building homes.
What is the main difference between direct democracy and a republic?
Republic: Elected representatives vote on laws
What is the significance of the Bill of Rights?
It listed the rights and freedoms of citizens; protects them from the government.
What does "separation of powers" mean in government?
Power is divided among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
Who were the Founding Fathers trying to gain independence from?
(Hint: Country and name of the King)
Great Britain and King George III
What was one major reason colonists became frustrated with British rule?
Over-taxation by the British / Lack of Representation in Parliament
What is the "state of nature" according to early American political thought?
A situation where there are no rules or laws.
Which of the following is NOT a right listed in the Declaration of Independence? Life, Liberty, The Pursuit of Happiness, or Property Taxes?
Property taxes
What is a constitutional government?
A government where laws apply equally to all citizens.
What was one reason the Founding Fathers believed in a constitutional government?
To ensure that laws were applied equally to all citizens.
How did the idea of a "social contract" influence early government?
It taught that people need to give up some freedoms for government protection.
How does the separation of powers prevent one branch from becoming too powerful?
It divides the government into 3 branches, each with their own responsibilities.
-Legislative, Executive, and Judicial --> All keep an eye on each other.
How does the Bill of Rights protect citizens from the government?
It protects citizens' rights. (Such as speech, religion, and due process)
Why did the Founders believe people needed a government?
To protect their rights and maintain order.
How did the concept of a social contract shape the way early governments were set up?
It emphasized (focused) the idea that people agree to be governed in exchange for protection for their rights.