1.1-Enlightenment Ideas that influenced the Founding Fathers

John Locke

English philosopher who believed the idea of a "social contract" in which government powers are derived from the consent of the governed and in which the government serves the people; also said people have natural rights to life, liberty and property.

consent of the governed

People are the source of any and all governmental power, social contract

Beliefs of John Locke

People enjoyed certain rights under natural law; life, liberty and property-natural rights. People join together under a social contract that gives a ruler and government the right to rule and must protect the peoples rights. People can rebel If the government breaks the contract with the people.

Natural Law

Rules that all society follow, that are based on common sense. Each person is guaranteed the right to life, liberty and property.

Executive Powers

The power to carry out and enforces the laws

Judicial Powers

The power to interpret the application of the law

Legislative Powers

The power to make laws

Enlightenment

a movement that emphasized science and reason as guides to help see the world more clearly

Check and balances

a principle of the federal government, according to the U.S. Constitution, that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the other branches

Social Contract

agreement between a people and their government, people would give up some freedom and their government would provide protection and order. If the government fails, then the people can alter or abolish the government.

Baron de Montesquieu

believed government should have separation of powers along with checks and balances to limit those powers

Founding Fathers

representatives from each of the 13 colonies who debated and ratified a document stating their reasons for separation and independence from England

Unalienable/natural rights

the idea that all humans are born with rights given to them by God, which include the right to life, liberty, and property

Separation of Powers

the structure of the federal government, according to the U.S. Constitution, that sets up three branches with their own distinct powers and responsibilities