Key Concepts in Early U.S. History and Political Philosophy

Front

Anti-Federalist

Back

A group of people in early U.S. history who opposed ratification of the U.S. Constitution because they feared a strong national government and a lack of protection for individual rights.

Front

Articles of Confederation

Back

The first constitution of the United States, in effect from 1781 until 1787.

Front

Bill of Rights

Back

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution; addresses Americans' rights in relation to the government.

Front

Common Sense

Back

A pamphlet published by Thomas Paine in 1776 to convince the American colonists to support becoming independent from Great Britain.

Front

Constitutional Republic

Back

A form of government in which there is democratic voting, but governmental power is limited by the existence of a constitution that protects the rights of citizens.

Front

Constitutional Convention

Back

A meeting in Philadelphia in 1787 where delegates decided to throw out the Articles of Confederation and draft the U.S. Constitution.

Front

Consent of the Governed

Back

The idea that government gains its power/authority from the people.

Front

Due Process

Back

The right of people accused of crimes to have laws that treat them fairly, so that they cannot lose their life or freedom without having their legal rights protected.

Front

Declaration of Independence

Back

The founding document that provided a justification for independence, including a list of grievances of the colonies against the King of England; adopted July 4, 1776 by the Second Continental Congress.

Front

English Bill of Rights

Back

A government document written in 1689 that expanded the powers of the English Parliament and expanded the rights of the people, as well as further limited the rights of the king.