1. The English Bill of Rights had a significant impact on colonist views of government. It was passed in 1689 and it outlined the rights and liberties of individuals, restricted the powers of the monarchy, and established a system of government based on the rule of law. Colonists saw the English Bill of Rights as a model for good governance and believed that it guaranteed their fundamental rights and freedoms. The bill emphasized the idea of limited government, which meant that the power of the monarchy was limited and the rights of the people were protected. This idea resonated with the colonists and influenced their views on government.
The English Bill of Rights also helped to shape the colonists' understanding of individual liberties and their rights as British subjects. It reinforced the principles of due process, freedom of speech, and trial by jury. These concepts became integral to the colonists' beliefs about their rights and freedoms. The bill's influence can be seen in the ideals and demands put forth by the colonists during the American Revolution, as they sought to secure the same rights and liberties that were guaranteed to English citizens under the bill. Overall, the English Bill of Rights played a crucial role in shaping colonists' views of government and their ideas about the rights and freedoms they should be entitled to.
2. Thomas Paine's Common Sense also had a profound impact on colonist views of government. Published in 1776, Common Sense was a pamphlet that called for American independence from Britain. Paine's persuasive arguments appealed to the colonists and worked to galvanize support for revolution. The pamphlet challenged the legitimacy of monarchy and argued for the establishment of a democratic republic. Paine criticized the idea of hereditary rule and argued that power should be derived from the consent of the governed.
Common Sense sparked a shift in colonist views of government by popularizing the idea of independence and providing a clear rationale for breaking away from British rule. It greatly influenced public opinion and helped to mobilize colonists towards the cause of revolution. Paine's work energized the colonists and gave them a renewed sense of purpose and determination in their fight for freedom.
Additionally, Common Sense also contributed to the colonists' understanding of natural rights and the importance of self-governance. Paine stressed the notion that individuals have inherent rights that cannot be taken away by any government or monarch. This idea resonated with the colonists and reinforced their commitment to fighting for their rights and freedoms. Paine's call for a government that derived its power from the people greatly influenced the colonists' views on the role and structure of government, providing a foundation for the development of the American system of democracy.
In conclusion, both the English Bill of Rights and Thomas Paine's Common Sense had significant impacts on colonist views of government. The English Bill of Rights provided a framework for limited government and protection of individual liberties, while Common Sense inspired colonists to seek independence and embrace democratic ideals. Together, these influential works helped shape the colonists' notions of rights, freedoms, and the type of government they desired for their newly formed nation.
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
3 answers
in 5o words
put it in 50 words