Magna Carta, English Bill of Rights, and Mayflower Compact

The beginnings of our country. Steps toward self government and freedom.

Magna Carta

• For centuries, monarch ruled with absolute authority over the English.

• The people were subjects to the Kings power.

Magna Carta

• By the 1200’s, English Nobles (those with money and power), were strong enough to challenge the King’s power.

• In 1215, King John was forced to sign the Magna Carta.

Magna Carta cont…

• It listed the rights that the King could not take away.

• These included the right to a fair trial and to travel freely.

• It was an important step in gaining freedom for all English citizens.

Magna Carta cont…

• This was the first time the monarch’s power had been limited.

• Originally intended for nobles only, the rights were eventually given to all English citizens, including the colonists.

The English Bill of Rights

• A representative government was made. (Parliament)

• Over time Parliament became more powerful than the monarchy.

• In 1689, Parliament passed the English Bill of Rights.

English Bill of Rights cont…

• The monarch could no longer collect taxes without Parliament’s permission or limit free speech.

• Listed the rights of all English citizens, not just nobles.

• Also included right to petition and other rights that are included in our Constitution.

Mayflower Compact

• Nov. 11, 1620 the Mayflower is anchored in the Boston Harbor.

• 102 Passengers were aboard, most seeking religious freedom.

• Others were seeking wealth.

Mayflower Compact

• In order to survive they would have to work together.

• They had to establish laws.

• They signed an agreement called the Mayflower compact.

Mayflower Compact

• In the world at that time, laws were imposed on people by the monarch.

• This was one of the first steps toward self government.

Timeline of Events

• In 1215 King John was forced to sign the Magna Carta.

• 1620 The colonist signed the Mayflower compact.

• 1689 John Locke starts publishing his theories.

• 1748 Spirit of the Laws was published. (Montesquieu)

• 1765 Stamp Act Passed and Repealed

• 1770 Boston Massacre• 1773 Tea Act and

Boston Tea Party

Timeline Continued

• 1774 Intolerable act Passes and First Continental Congress.

• 1775 Shot heard round the world. Revolution begins. Second Continental Congress meets.

• July 4, 1776 U.S. Declares Independence.

• Nov. 1777 Articles of Confederation approved.

• 1781 British surrender at Yorktown.

Time Line Continued

• 1783 Britain recognizes America as Independent.

• May 1787 the Constitutional Convention begins.

• Sept. 1787 Constitution ratified.