Influences on American Government

Early English Influence Early American ideas of democracy and government can be traced back to early English rule. England was ruled by a monarch for centuries. “Monarchy” is a form of government where the nation is ruled by a king or queen

Rule of King John (1199-1216) The rule of King John of England met resistance from his noble families. In 1215, they rebelled in order to maintain their authority and privileges.

The “Magna Carta” (1215) “Magna Carta” (Latin for “Great Charter”) was signed by King John. It was a contract that limited the power of the monarch by guaranteeing that no one is above the law (even the king) – RULE of LAW

The “Magna Carta” (1215) This document upheld the rights of landowners by: protecting the people’s rights limiting the power of the Monarch – leading to a LIMITED GOVERNMENT!

“English Bill of Rights” (1689) The “English Bill of Rights” was drawn up in 1689 by Parliament (England’s legislature.) The English Bill of Rights - stated that the English monarch had no power over the Parliament and could never again control it’s actions.

“English Bill of Rights” (1689) The new document guaranteed the following: 1. King could not suspend laws without Parliament’s approval. 2. King could not create special courts without Parliament’s approval. 3. King could not impose new taxes without Parliament’s approval. 4. King could not raise an army without consent of Parliament 5. Parliament would now be freely elected (by the people) 6. All citizens would have the right to fair trial 7. Bans cruel and unusual punishment

Limited Government Documents like the Magna Carta and the English Bill of Rights created a tradition of limited government in England – the colonists would be influenced by these documents and the idea of limited government later on….