Influences on the U.S. Constitution

Influences on the U.S. Constitution

Imagine that you have been asked to teach a class on U.S. history at the local community college. Prepare a lecture in which you explain the historical, political, philosophical, and economic influences on the development of the U.S. Constitution.

Respond to the question prompts in Sections 1 through 3 of this assignment in the form of a lecture you would give to the class to explain the each of the topics.

Section 1: Important Documents

Select 2 of the documents below:

• Articles of Confederation
• Declaration of Independence
• English Bill of Rights
• Magna Carta
• Mayflower Compact
  
  

Prompt: Describe the documents and explain their importance. Which document do you believe is the most important influence on the Constitution? (350- to 525-words)

Section 2: Philosophers and Philosophies

Select 2 of the philosophers below:

• Baron de Montesquieu
• John Locke
• Thomas Hobbes
• William Blackstone

Describe who they were and why they were important. How did their writings influence the Constitution? (350- to 525-words)

Section 3: Events and Movements

Select 2 of the events below:

• England’s Parliament
• Protestant Reformation
• European Enlightenment

Explain the events or movements and their importance. Describe their influence on the Constitution. (350- to 525-words)