Significant Historical Documents

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Significance of the Magna Carta (1215)

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It limited the power of the monarchy and introduced the idea of due process.

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Importance of the Mayflower Compact (1620)

Back

It created the first direct democracy in the colonies.

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Guarantees of the English Bill of Rights (1689)

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The right to a fair trial and limits on the power of the monarchy.

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Main argument in The Rights of the British Colonies Asserted and Proved (1764)

Back

Colonists had the same rights as English citizens and should not be taxed without representation.

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Purpose of the Sugar Act (1764)

Back

To raise revenue by taxing sugar and molasses imports.

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Reason the Stamp Act (1765) angered American colonists

Back

It required all printed materials to have an official tax stamp, raising costs.

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Requirement of the Quartering Act (1765)

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Provide food and housing to British soldiers stationed in the colonies.

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Argument of Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania (1767-1768)

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Taxes imposed without representation violated the rights of English citizens.

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Description of the Intolerable Acts (1774)

Back

A series of British laws that punished Massachusetts for the Boston Tea Party.

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Purpose of the Declaration of Resolves of the First Continental Congress (1774)

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To petition King George III for a repeal of unjust laws and affirm colonial rights.