The Fundamental Orders of 1638-1639 were significant because they established a framework for government in the Connecticut River Valley. They are often considered one of the first written constitutions that created a government. Key features of the Fundamental Orders included:
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Framework for Self-Government: They provided a system of government based on the principle of a social contract, where the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed.
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Representative Government: The Orders instituted a representative government where the colonies would be governed by elected officials, allowing for a more participatory system than what existed under British rule.
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Separation of Powers: The Fundamental Orders outlined a clear separation of powers among different branches of government, which influenced later constitutional frameworks.
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Voting Rights: They established criteria for voting, including provisions that were more inclusive than those in some other colonies at the time, particularly regarding land ownership.
The Fundamental Orders laid the groundwork for the development of the state of Connecticut and influenced the evolution of governance in America.
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