13 Colonies: Colonial Government & English Influence

Question

Name TWO ways that England's government influenced democratic ideas in the American Colonies.

Answer 1

England's government influenced democratic ideas in the American colonies in several ways, two of which are:

1. Magna Carta (1215): The Magna Carta established the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law. It introduced concepts such as due process and the idea that individuals have certain rights that the government cannot infringe upon. This document laid the groundwork for limited government and influenced colonial charters and legal frameworks, encouraging colonists to seek their own rights and participate in self-governance.

2. Parliamentary Tradition: England's development of a parliamentary system introduced notions of representation and governance by consent. The idea that colonists should have a voice in their own governance was influenced by the English Parliament, which held the power to make laws and levy taxes. This led to the creation of colonial assemblies where colonists could elect representatives, thereby fostering democratic ideals and practices in the colonies, such as the belief in consent of the governed.

These influences helped shape the political ideologies that would later contribute to the foundation of American democracy.