Magna Carta English Bill of Rights and Mayflower

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 (Montesquieu) • 1765 Stamp Act Passed and Repealed • 1770 Boston Massacre • 1773 Tea Act and Boston Tea Party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.