1. The English Bill of Rights had a significant impact on colonist views of government. It provided a clear outline of the rights and liberties that individuals should expect from their government, such as freedom of speech, the right to a fair trial, and protection against cruel and unusual punishment. This document established the principle that government should serve the people and protect their rights, rather than being an oppressive force. The colonists admired the English Bill of Rights and saw it as a model for their own governance. It helped shape their belief in the importance of individual liberties and limited government power, which became central to their demands for independence.
2. Thomas Paine's Common Sense had a profound impact on colonist views of government. Published in 1776, this pamphlet advocated for American independence and challenged the authority of the British monarchy. Paine's powerful arguments against monarchy and his call for the establishment of a republican form of government resonated with many colonists who were growing increasingly dissatisfied with British rule. Common Sense spread widely throughout the colonies and sparked a sense of revolutionary fervor. It played a crucial role in mobilizing public support for independence and convincing many colonists that a complete break from British rule was necessary. Paine's ideas influenced the colonists' belief in the importance of self-governance, the consent of the governed, and the pursuit of individual rights, which became fundamental principles of the new American government.
The following Free Response question has two parts.
Explain the impact that the English Bill of Rights and Thomas Paine’s Common Sense had on colonist views of government.
Format your answer as follows:
1. Impact of the English Bill of Rights had on colonist views of government
2. Impact of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense had on colonist views of government
1 answer
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