Growth of Representative Government

Front

What is representative government?

Back

A system where citizens elect others to represent them and make laws on their behalf.

Front

What was the Mayflower Compact?

Back

An agreement signed by the Pilgrims agreeing to govern themselves.

Front

What did the Virginia House of Burgesses represent?

Back

The first legislative assembly in the colonies, established in Virginia.

Front

Who was John Locke?

Back

A philosopher who believed in natural rights and the idea of consent of the governed.

Front

What is a social contract?

Back

An agreement between the government and the governed that defines rights and responsibilities.

Front

What is salutary neglect?

Back

A policy where Britain relaxed enforcement of laws on the colonies, allowing them to govern themselves.

Front

What were town hall meetings?

Back

Local gatherings where colonists discussed issues and proposed solutions.

Front

What did the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut establish?

Back

The first written constitution in the colonies; created government limits and expanded rights.

Front

Who was Thomas Hooker?

Back

A minister who helped found Connecticut and believed governments should answer to the people.

Front

What role did Enlightenment philosophers play?

Back

They believed in using reason and logic to improve society and government.