America’s Political Heritage Overview: Our American heritage developed from Greek,

Roman, and English traditions of government. Belief in self-government prompted colonists to

rebel against English rule and win the American War of Independence.

The belief in government by the consent of the people led Americans to establish a government dedicated to preventing tyranny and protecting the rights of citizens.

Many American traditions have their roots in colonial period.

Many of our beliefs such as representative government, freedom of religion, and freedom of the press were established during this time. These core beliefs form the foundation of American government and society.

The Colonial Experience

The colonists looked to history to help them form ideas of government.

They drew from English documents such as the Magna Carta and the English Bill of Rights.

The Roots of American Government

The Magna Carta◦ Give Citizens equal treatment under the law◦ Trial by one’s peers’◦ Limited power of the Monarch

English Bill of Rights◦ Guaranteed free elections◦ Right to a fair trial◦ Elimination of cruel and unusual punishment

English Influence The documents

John Locke: Develops the idea of Natural Rights “Life, Liberty, and Property”

Montesquieu: Believes governments should separate powers “3 branches”

The Enlightenment{New Ideas}