How were the writers of the US Constitution influenced by colonial government?

A popular philosophical movement of the 1700's that focused on human reasoning, natural science, political and ethical philosophy.

17th century English philosopher who opposed the Divine Right of Kings and who asserted that people have a natural right to life, liberty, and property.

A voluntary agreement among individuals to secure their rights and welfare by creating a government and abiding by its rules.

French aristocrat who wanted to limit royal absolutism; Wrote The Spirit of Laws, urging that power be separated between executive, legislative, and judicial branches, each balancing out the others, thus preventing despotism and preserving freedom. This greatly influenced writers of the US Constitution. He greatly admired British form of government.

An act of vesting the legislative, executive, and judicial powers of government in separate bodies.

(1215) a charter of liberties (freedoms) that King John "Lackland" of Englad was forced to sign; it made the king obey the same laws as the citizens of his kingdom.

1689 laws protecting the rights of English subjects and Parliament.

1620 - The first agreement for self-government in America. It was signed by the 41 men on the Mayflower and set up a government for the Plymouth colony.