In this lesson, we have discussed several of the most important political philosophers whose ideas were included in the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Articles of Confederation. Use the activity below to review how various philosophers influenced the shape and structure of American democracy.
Which idea at the center of our democracy did John Locke contribute?
his belief that the cocial compact--a mutual agreement between rulers and the ruled--cannot exist “where there is no law”
What belief about the structure of government did the Founding Fathers borrow from Charles Montesquieu?
the need for a separation of powers within the government to prevent tyranny
What were the Founding Fathers prompted to do based on Niccolò Machiavelli's writing?
consider the role that socioeconomic issues might play in a government's chances of success
What belief expressed by William Blackstone became part of the Constitution?
Citizens should be able to own weapons for the purpose of protecting themselves and their communities.
What did Alexis de Tocqueville warn against after visiting and observing Americans in the early 1800s?
"the tyranny of the majority"
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