Aim: What influenced the early colonial governments and future government of the United States? Do Now: Geography/Colonial Settlement Quiz Homework: a) French and Indian War Worksheet

I. Colonial Principals and Practices of Government A. The colonists believed that the power of government should be limited. Government existed to protect peoples’ natural rights Life, Liberty, and protection of property What Enlightenment thinker came up with this idea? John Locke

I. Colonial Principals and Practices of Government B. Colonists believed there should be legal limits on government attempts to control what is written. 1735 - John Peter Zenger Case helped establish the principal of freedom of the press in the United States.

II. Contracts and Self-Government A. Colonists believed in the right to enter into contracts (a legal agreement between two individuals). 1620 – Mayflower Compact - signed by 41 English colonists on the ship Mayflower was the first written framework of government established in North America.

II. Contracts and Self-Government 1639 – The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut – the first written constitution in North America.

II. Contracts and Self-Government B. The colonist believed in the importance of self-government (based on the participation in government by representatives of the people.) 1619 – Virginia House of Burgesses - the first legislative assembly of elected representatives in North America.

II. Contracts and Self-Government In New England, town hall meetings allowed citizens to govern themselves through direct democracy.

Closing Question What influenced the early colonial governments and future government of the United States?