European Influences on American Government

Objectives:

1) Review your notes pp. 40-5

2) Demonstrate an understanding of Concepts

What is Civics? Define Civics The study of the rights and duties of citizens What are some RIGHTS of U.S. citizens? Voting freedom of speech, trial by jury of peers, etc. What are some DUTIES of U.S. citizens? Voting, jury duty, paying taxes, military service, and

civic participation

Check your notes pp. 40-45. Did you get these key points?

What is the difference between direct democracy and representative democracy (republic)?

Direct: Citizens govern themselves Representative: Citizens elect leaders to govern Is the U.S. a direct democracy or a republic? Republic Example of direct democracy? Ancient Athens

British Influences What was the oldest British document creating principles of

limited government? The Magna Carta Explain “Limited Government” No ruler or government is all-powerful. Limits are placed on the

leaders. How did the Magna Carta limit government? * Can’t tax Nobles w/o consent * = treatment under law (for free men) * Trial by peers * Right to rebel if King breaks AGR

English Bill of Rights What rights did William & Mary agree to in

English Bill of Rights? * No prison or property loss w/o due process (fair trial) * No cruel punishment * No army in peacetime * No taxes w/o consent of Parliament * Right to bear arms * Right to petition the King * Freedom of speech in Parliament What is Parliament? The lawmaking body of England What is the lawmaking body called in the U.S.? Congress

Influences of Enlightenment Philosophers

John Locke? Natural Rights: life, liberty, and property Right to rebel if govt. violates those rights Montesquieu? Separation of Powers Voltaire? Freedom of Religion and Trade

What did you write for your summary? American govt. was shaped by earlier

governments and philosophers (Examples: democracy, republic, elections, veto, bill of rights, natural rights, right to rebel, separation of powers, freedom of religion, etc.)