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1215
Magna Carta
There was a document drawn up to recognize the rights of the noblemen and ordinary Englishman. It states that no one is above the government or the documents written by it. -
General Court
The Massachusetts General Court formally adopts the first broad statement of American liberties. This document included the right to petition and due process -
Rhode Island
The new charter granted religious freedom to all. -
John Locke
John Locke’s Letter Concerning Toleration is published. It provides the basis for George Mason’s proposal of Article Sixteen of the Virginia Declaration of Rights of 1776.It deals with the religion. Mason’s idea states that “all Men should enjoy the fullest toleration in the exercise of religion.” -
Connecticut
Connecticut passes the first dissenter statute and allows “full liberty of worship” to Anglicans and Baptists.This means that they are now free to worship how they want when they want. -
House of Burgesses
Virginia’s House of Burgesses passes the Virginia Declaration of Rights. It is the first bill of rights to be included in a state constitution in America. -
Declaration of Independence
The Continental Congress adopts the final draft of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, which marks the beginning of the United States of America. -
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson completed his first draft of the Virginia state bill for religious freedom. It states “No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever.” This bill later became the state Ordinance. -
Virginia
Virginia adopts religious freedom ordinance, and prohibits harassment based on religious differences. -
Federalist Papers
These are papers written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay that urge the ratification of the constitution and it work of the most part. There were 85 papers written. -
Bill of Rights Accepted
Virginia becomes the 11th state to accept the first ten amendments, which then ratifies the bill of rights -
Resolutions
Thomas Jefferson introduces the “Kentucky Resolution” while James Madison issues the “Virginia Resolution”. These two resolutions give the states the power to determine the constitutionality of the Alien and Sedition Acts.
