The U.S. Constitution, featuring profiles on Founding Fathers, a comprehensive collection of amendments, and a wealth of historical documents.
Online since 1995.
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Religious Beliefs of the Founding Fathers The American founding era encompassed a vast spectrum of religious beliefs, reflecting the diversity of the population itself. Approximately 98% of Americans of European descent identified with Protestantism, predominantly adhering to the reformed theological…
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Enlightenment Ideas in the Constitution
1. Natural Rights Natural Rights, a foundational concept inspired by John Locke, is deeply embedded in the Constitution. Locke's theory posits that all individuals inherently possess certain rights—life, liberty, and property. These rights aren't granted by governments but are inherent…
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Revolutionary War Veterans’ Impact on Constitution
Veterans' Influence on Constitutional Framework The Constitutional Convention assembled numerous Revolutionary War veterans who significantly contributed to the creation of the nation's founding document. These individuals, well-acquainted with the difficulties of wartime leadership and the shortcomings of the Articles of…
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Philosophical Roots of U.S. Constitution
The philosophical foundations of the United States Constitution are deeply rooted in the ideas of natural rights, separation of powers, republicanism, and the social contract. These principles were carefully considered by the Framers to create a system of governance that…
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Classical Influence on Founding Fathers
Classical Education of the Founding Fathers When Alexander Hamilton entered King's College in 1773, he already had a mastery of Greek and Latin grammar. He could read three orations from Cicero and Vergil's Aeneid in the original Latin, and translate…
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Top Founding Fathers’ Legacies
1. George Washington George Washington, known as the "Father of His Country," was crucial in the creation and early leadership of the United States. As the first President, his leadership style set key precedents for future officeholders. His role as…
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Impact of Common Sense on Revolution
Thomas Paine's Background and Arrival in America Thomas Paine's journey from England to America brought with it a significant shift in pace and purpose. Born in Thetford, England, on February 9, 1737, Paine's early years were marked by a sequence…
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Women in the Founding Era
Early Advocates for Women's Rights Abigail Adams, in her 1776 letter to John Adams, stands as a pivotal early voice for women's rights. Her sentiments transcended the domestic sphere, pushing John to "remember the ladies" while drafting new laws. Abigail…
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Founding Fathers’ Debates Today
Electoral College and Minority Rule The Electoral College was a masterstroke by the Founding Fathers to address their concerns about direct democracy. They feared that unchecked majority rule could lead to mobocracy, where a passion-driven populace could make rash decisions.…
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Top Founding Era Writings
1. Declaration of Independence The Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, articulates the colonies' reasons for seeking independence from Great Britain. Jefferson presents the philosophical foundation that all men are created equal, endowed with inalienable rights such…