2.1 The Origins of the Constitution

1. Winning Independence

1.1. The colonists were little match for the British power but were victorious in 1783.

1.2. The revolution did not drastically alter the colonists way of life.

2. The Road to Revolution

2.1. Britain was taxing more to pay for the French and Indian War, but the colonists were not directly represented in Parliament

3. Declaring Independence

3.1. Declaration of Independence: the document approved by representatives of the American colonies in 1776 that stated their grievances against the British monarch and declared their independence

4. The English Heritage

4.1. Natural rights: rights inherent in human beings not dependent on governments, which include life, liberty, and property

4.1.1. John Locke

4.1.1.1. People have the right to revolt against the government if the government fails to protect their natural rights.

4.1.2. American Interpretation- "Laws of Nature and Nature's God" and "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness"

4.2. Limited Government-certain restrictions should be placed on government to protect the natural rights.

4.2.1. "The history of he present king of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations."

4.3. Consent of the Governed- gains authority from the sanction of the people.

4.3.1. "Governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed."