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Jun 15, 1215
Magna Carta
Angry nobles wanted to limit the power of the king and protect their rights; it introduced the concepts of limited government and rule of law. -
Mayflower Compact
Pilgrims wanted to solve the problem of who is in charge. Created self-government. -
John Locke
Believed in freedom and rights for the people of the government -
Baron de Montesquieu
Believed humans had natural rights and social contract. -
English Bill of Rights
People in Britain wanted to expand the rights of the Parliament and the people. -
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Believed there should be equal powers of each part of the government; Separation of Powers -
Cato's Letters
Argued against the Kings heavy-handed rule.Discussed things like freedom of expression which became very influential in theb colonies. -
Common Sense
Explained the arguments for independence in a way that's easier to understand. Also encouraged colonists to support the fight for independence from Britian.
