1. The Path to Democracy Donald Sterrett

2. The Magna Carta In England in 1215 the nobles force King John to sign the Magna Carta. It required the king to recognize some rights of the nobles. It is a first break in the power of the king and it is one of the first pronouncements of a law that is higher then the ruler. Also leads to the development by recognizing that there are some rights that the king can’t take away.

3. The English Bill of Rights England in 1689 It was signed by William and Mary when they were given the throne of England. It recognized the power of parliament and that there were limits on the power of the king. It also granted individual rights to citizens. The first document to give rights to people that could not be changed.

4. The Declaration of Independence This was signed by leaders in the United States when they were breaking away from England. Asserts that the job of government is to protect the rights of the people and if the government fails to do so the people can revolt against the government. Asserts that the job of government is to protect the rights of the people and if the government fails to do so the people can revolt against the government. Asserts Natural Rights. Based on John Locke

5. The U.S. Constitution Forms a Republic for the People and by the people. Makes the law higher then the leader. Makes the law higher then the leader. Places limits on the powers of the government. Places limits on the powers of the government. Separates the powers into different branches which divides up the power and gives less chance of government taking over.

6. The Glorious Revolution Occurs in England. It is important because it is largely non- violent. The new king and queen William and Mary agreed to the limitations on their power placed upon them. The king and queen recognize the power of the Parliament. They are not totally in control.

7. The American Revolution 1776 in the United States The U.S. revolts from Great Britain. It is important because this revolution leads directly to a Republic. (Where people get to vote for their representatives)

8. The French Revolution The French peasants rise up and overthrow the king and queen and they are eventually executed. After the end of the French monarchy there is a short lived attempt at creating a democracy but they go back to a monarchy right afterwards. This is how it is different from American Revolution where the republic lasts.