Influence of Earlier Documents on Consitution of the United States of America

Question 1

Established the concept of Rule of Law

Answer 1

Magna Carta

Question 2

Established the first representative form of government in America

Answer 2

Charters of the Virginia Company of London

Question 3

Stated grievances against King of GB. Declared colonies’ independence from GB. Affirmed “certain unalienable rights” (life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness). Established idea that all people are created equal under law.

Answer 3

Declaration of Independence

Question 4

Established first form of national government for independent states. Maintained the major powers resided with individual states. Weakness of central government (e.g. no power to tax and enforce laws) - led to writing of the Constitution

Answer 4

Articles of Confederation

Question 5

Served as model for the Bill of Rights of the Constitution. Written by George Mason

Answer 5

Virginia Declaration of Rights

Question 6

Establishes the structure of the U.S. government. Guarantees equality under the law with majority rule and the rights of the majority rule and the rights of the minority protected. Affirms individual worth and dignity of all people. Protects the fundamental freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.

Answer 6

Constitution (Including Bill of Rights

Question 7

Established the idea of Freedom of Religion. Written by Thomas Jefferson

Answer 7

Virginia Statue of Religious Freedom