Exploring Self-Government in the 13 Colonies

The video explores the development of self-government in the American colonies. It begins with the concept of self-governance, contrasting it with the absolute rule of English kings. The Magna Carta and the establishment of Parliament are highlighted as pivotal moments in English history that influenced colonial expectations. The colonists, accustomed to a participatory government, sought similar governance in the New World. The Mayflower Compact is presented as an early example of self-government. Challenges such as the distance from England and the resulting salutary neglect allowed the colonies to create their own laws. Philosophical ideas from thinkers like Montesquieu supported the notion of government by the people.

What does self-government mean?

• People governing themselves

• Anarchy

• Military rule

• A king setting all the rules

Who controlled all the land, army, and laws in England a long time ago?

• The Nobles

• The Church

• The King

• Parliament

What significant document did a group of rich Englishmen force the King to sign in 1215?

• The Bill of Rights

• The Declaration of Independence

• The Magna Carta

• The Constitution

What did the Magna Carta lead to the creation of?

• The United Nations

• The European Union

• Parliament

• The Supreme Court

What did the colonists expect when they arrived in the New World?

• To be ruled directly by the King

• To have no government at all

• To have the same style of self-government as in England

• To be ruled by the Native Americans

What was the Mayflower Compact of 1620?

• A trade agreement

• A social contract for self-government

• A declaration of war

• A peace treaty with Native Americans

Why was it difficult for England to govern the colonies directly?

• The colonies were too small

• The distance was too great

• The King was uninterested

• The colonies were too wealthy

What is 'salutary neglect'?

• A military strategy

• Ignoring the colonies completely

• Allowing colonies to self-govern

• A policy of strict control

What did French philosopher Charles de Montesquieu believe about government?

• It should be abolished

• It should be controlled by the military

• It should be with the people

• It should be above the people

What is another term for 'popular sovereignty'?

• Oligarchy

• Divine right

• Monarchy

• Power of the people