Declaration of Independence

Order Instructions

I. Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence (1776)

http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/declaration_transcript.html

1. What is the philosophical basis for declaring independence?

2. What are the political principles that the document establishes?

3. How would you characterize the specific grievances attributed to the King of England?

4. If the role of government is to establish order and the peaceful transference of power, would the principles established in this document support those goals?

5. The founders specifically identify “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” as three of the unalienable rights. What do you think they meant by these terms? Write one paragraph per term that defines the terms.

II. Constitution of the United States

The Constitution of the United States (1788)

http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html

1. What specific powers are granted to each branch of government?

2. Why did the Founding Fathers arrange the government in such a fashion?

3. Which political actor—the federal government, the state governments or the people—controls the political life of the country?

4. Pick one of the reasons given in the preamble for establishing the Constitution and in 1-2 paragraphs explain what you think it means. Be specific!

III. The Bill of Rights

The Bill of Rights (1791)

http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/bill_of_rights_transcript.html

1. Why was the Bill of Rights included?

2. Select one of the original ten amendments and in 1-2 paragraphs explain what the framers meant by it, and what meaning it has today.