The Roots of American Government

  • Jun 15, 1215

    Magna Carta is signed

    Established the practice of Limited Government
  • Period: to

    Mayflower Compact is signed

    First plans of a self government in America
  • Period: to

    The Great Fundementals is put in place

    First basic system of laws in America
  • Period: to

    Fundemental Orders of Connecticut put in place

    People living in the American colonies could now elect the officials representing them.
  • Period: to

    English Bill of Rights is passed

    Put limits on the English Parliment
  • Period: to

    John Locke publishes his book Two Treatises on Government

    Presented the ideals of Natural Rights, influencing many revolutionary leaders.
  • Declaration of Independence is signed

    Declared the United States of America as its own independent country
  • Period: to

    The Articles of Confederation are drafted up and put into place

    The document acted as the constitution to the country before the actual U.S. Constitution.
  • U.S. Constitution is written and ratified

    The U.S. Constitution became the new and improved framework for the Amercan government.
  • Period: to

    Bill of Rights is added to the U.S. Constitution

    Set limits and boundaries on the american government