1. Impact of the English Bill of Rights had on colonist views of government:
The English Bill of Rights, passed in 1689, had a significant impact on colonist views of government. This document established several crucial principles that influenced the colonists' perception of their rights and the role of government. The bill highlighted the idea that power should be limited and shared between the king and Parliament. It also stated that the monarchy should be subject to the law and that individuals had certain fundamental rights that could not be violated.
The English Bill of Rights had a profound effect on colonist views of government, as it provided a model for ensuring a balance of power and the protection of individual rights. The colonists saw it as a confirmation of the rights they believed they were entitled to as English subjects. They became more aware of the importance of having a government that respected their rights and limited its power. This, in turn, fostered a growing sense of independence and a desire for self-governance among the colonists.
2. Impact of Thomas Paine's Common Sense had on colonist views of government:
Thomas Paine's pamphlet "Common Sense," published in 1776, had a significant impact on colonist views of government and played a crucial role in pushing them towards independence. Paine made a compelling argument for breaking away from British rule and establishing a new form of government.
"Common Sense" challenged the legitimacy of a monarchy and argued for the establishment of a republic. Paine argued that it was absurd for a small island like Great Britain to govern a vast continent like North America. His powerful and accessible writing style resonated with the colonists and helped them understand the flaws and limitations of monarchical rule.
Paine's pamphlet also gave a voice to the frustrations and grievances that many colonists had been feeling. It called for a government that derived its power from the consent of the governed and emphasized the importance of individual rights and liberty. "Common Sense" helped shift public opinion towards supporting independence and inspired many to question their loyalty to the British crown.
Overall, Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" played a crucial role in galvanizing the colonists, convincing them of the necessity of independence, and shaping their views on the kind of government they wanted to establish in its place.
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
50 word limit
1. English Bill of Rights: Established a model for limited government and protection of individual rights, influencing colonists to seek self-governance.
2. Thomas Paine's Common Sense: Challenged monarchy, advocated for republic, and inspired colonists to question loyalty to Britain, fueling desire for independence.
2. Thomas Paine's Common Sense: Challenged monarchy, advocated for republic, and inspired colonists to question loyalty to Britain, fueling desire for independence.