The following Free Response question has two parts.
Explain the impact that the English Bill of Rights and Thomas Paine’s Common Sense had on colonist views of government.
Format your answer as follows:
1. Impact of the English Bill of Rights had on colonist views of government
2. Impact of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense had on colonist views of government
1. The English Bill of Rights had a significant impact on colonists' views of government. It provided a clear set of rights and protections that were previously lacking under British rule. The bill guaranteed freedoms such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom from excessive bail or cruel punishments. These rights were seen as essential to a fair and just government by the colonists. It also established the principle of limited government, stating that the monarchy's power was not absolute and that Parliament held the authority to make laws and levy taxes. This notion of limited government resonated with the colonists, who had experienced the overreach of British rule and sought to ensure that their own government would not encroach upon their rights. Ultimately, the English Bill of Rights helped shape the colonists' belief in individual liberties and the importance of a government accountable to its citizens.
2. Thomas Paine's Common Sense also had a profound impact on colonist views of government. Published in 1776, this pamphlet was widely read and helped rally support for American independence from Britain. Paine's writing passionately argued for the principles of republicanism and self-governance. It called for the establishment of a democratic government that derived its power from the consent of the governed. Common Sense resonated with colonists who were tired of British oppression and sought to shape their own destiny. Paine's arguments against the monarchy and hereditary rule challenged the traditional view of monarchy as the ideal form of government. His persuasive writing style and straightforward arguments helped to galvanize support for the American Revolution. By challenging the legitimacy of British rule and advocating for self-rule, Common Sense played a pivotal role in shaping colonists' views of government and catalyzing the desire for independence.
50 word limit
1. English Bill of Rights: Colonists saw it as essential for fair government, guaranteeing freedoms like speech and religion, and establishing limited monarchy power.
2. Thomas Paine's Common Sense: It passionately argued for republicanism, self-governance, and challenged traditional monarchy, inspiring colonists to seek independence and shape their own government.
The English Bill of Rights listed the rights of the people, colonists saw these guarantees of rights as fair, and the English Bill of rights heavily influenced the constitution. Thomas Paine's Common Sense argued about how independence should be common sense,this caused colonial leaders to discuss the possibility of independence.
1. Impact of the English Bill of Rights: Colonists viewed the guarantees of rights as fair, and it heavily influenced the constitution.
2. Impact of Thomas Paine's Common Sense: It argued for independence and inspired colonial leaders to discuss the possibility of independence.
1. Impact of the English Bill of Rights on colonist views of government:
The English Bill of Rights, enacted in 1689, had a significant impact on colonist views of government. It provided a clear set of rights and limitations on the English monarchy, which influenced colonists' perception of their own colonial governments. The Bill of Rights introduced concepts such as limited government, individual rights, and the idea that government must be based on the consent of the governed. Colonists saw these principles as essential for maintaining a just and fair government.
The English Bill of Rights inspired colonists to question the authority of the British monarchy and demand similar rights and protections. Colonists, especially those in the American colonies, had a growing sense of their individual rights as English subjects and believed that these rights should be extended to all. They viewed the Bill of Rights as a validation of their rights and a source of inspiration in their fight against unjust policies.
2. Impact of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense on colonist views of government:
Published in 1776, Thomas Paine's Common Sense had a profound impact on colonist views of government and played a significant role in shaping the American Revolution. Paine argued for the complete independence of the American colonies from British rule and challenged the idea that the monarchy was necessary for good governance.
Common Sense resonated with many colonists because it presented a simple and persuasive argument against monarchical rule. Paine advocated for a democratic republic, where power would be vested in the people rather than a monarch. He criticized the idea of hereditary rule and highlighted the inherent rights of individuals to govern themselves.
Paine's pamphlet inspired a sense of unity and patriotism among colonists. It provided them with a rational justification for breaking away from British rule and encouraged them to fight for their rights and independence. Common Sense played a crucial role in galvanizing public opinion and mobilizing support for the American Revolution, ultimately leading to the establishment of a new nation based on democratic principles.
To answer this question, let's break it down into two parts:
1. Impact of the English Bill of Rights on colonist views of government:
To determine the impact of the English Bill of Rights on colonist views of government, you should start by understanding what the English Bill of Rights was and how it influenced colonists' perspectives.
The English Bill of Rights was a law passed by the English Parliament in 1689. It protected certain individual rights and limited the power of the monarchy. Here's how you can explain its impact on colonist views of government:
a. Research the content of the English Bill of Rights: Read and analyze the text of the English Bill of Rights. Understand the rights it guarantees, such as freedom of speech, limited taxation powers, the right to petition the government, and the ban on cruel and unusual punishment.
b. Explore the historical context: Examine the historical background of the English Bill of Rights and how it emerged after the Glorious Revolution. Understand that the colonists looked to England for inspiration on political and legal matters.
c. Analyze the influence: Consider the influence of the English Bill of Rights on colonists. Many colonists saw the bill as a recognition and protection of their natural rights. They viewed it as a model for limiting governmental powers and protecting individual freedoms.
d. Consider the long-term impact: Discuss how the English Bill of Rights contributed to the colonists' perception of government. It strengthened their belief in the necessity of individual rights and a system of checks and balances. It also laid the foundation for later documents like the U.S. Bill of Rights.
2. Impact of Thomas Paine's Common Sense on colonist views of government:
To assess the impact of Common Sense, written by Thomas Paine, on colonist views of government, you should follow these steps:
a. Familiarize yourself with Common Sense: Read and thoroughly understand the content and arguments presented in Thomas Paine's Common Sense. Pay attention to his critiques of monarchy, defense of independence, and his call for a republican form of government.
b. Analyze the context: Research the historical context surrounding the publication of Common Sense. Understand the political climate, including growing discontent with British rule and the desire for greater self-governance.
c. Examine its influence: Assess the impact of Common Sense on colonist views of government. Paine's persuasive arguments resonated with many colonists, leading them to question the legitimacy of British rule and consider the idea of complete independence. It helped shape public opinion and build support for the American Revolution.
d. Discuss the long-lasting effects: Consider how Common Sense influenced the broader movement towards independence. Its wide distribution and compelling arguments swayed public opinion in favor of liberty and self-governance. Ultimately, it contributed to the widespread popularity of the Declaration of Independence and the establishment of a democratic system in the United States.
Remember to include supporting evidence and quotes from primary sources to strengthen your answer.