British & European Influence |
Considering the colonial ties between England and the United States, it is expected that the Founding Fathers were influenced by government policies enacted in England and other parts of Europe. One of the most important sources of inspiration from Europe is the Magna Carta, or Great Charter, of 1215. The philosophical discourse of the Enlightenment period also shaped ideas of government and political theory.
See below to learn more about the influence of Magna Carta & Enlightenment philosophy on American's founders. |
The Magna Carta is arguably the most important legal document as the ideas in it have influenced many governments, including United States government, since its signing in 1215.
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The Enlightenment created great discussion around the ideas of democracy, justice, equality, and individual liberty. Locke, Rousseau, and Montesquieu are three philosophers whose ideas influenced the Founding Fathers.
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