Foundations of American Democracy

The video explores how Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau influenced the founding fathers of America in creating a constitutional democracy. It discusses key historical documents such as the Magna Carta and the role of colonial government structures. The video also highlights the significance of the John Peter Zenger trial in establishing freedom of the press.

Which movement inspired the founding fathers to develop a constitutional democracy in America?

• The Enlightenment

• The Reformation

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Renaissance

What concept did John Locke introduce that influenced the Declaration of Independence?

• Divine Right of Kings

• Social Contract

• Federalism

• Separation of Church and State

Which Enlightenment thinker is known for the idea of separation of powers?

• John Locke

• Baron de Montesquieu

• Thomas Hobbes

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau

What did Montesquieu believe was necessary to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful?

• A single ruler

• A strong military

• Checks and balances

• Direct democracy

How did Rousseau view the role of government in relation to individual liberty?

• As irrelevant

• As a necessary evil

• As a tool for oppression

• As a protector of liberty

What historical document limited the power of the king and influenced American democracy?

• The Articles of Confederation

• The Magna Carta

• The Bill of Rights

• The Federalist Papers

What was the significance of the Virginia House of Burgesses?

• It was the first written constitution in the colonies.

• It established a representative government and self-rule.

• It granted freedom of religion to all Christians.

• It was the first direct democracy in the colonies.

What was the Mayflower Compact?

• A treaty with Native Americans

• An agreement for self-governance

• A declaration of independence

• A trade agreement with England

What was the outcome of the John Peter Zenger trial?

• He was found guilty of libel.

• He was pardoned by the king.

• He was acquitted, leading to freedom of the press.

• He was exiled from the colonies.

Which act was the first to grant freedom of religion among all Christians in the colonies?

• The Navigation Acts

• The Intolerable Acts

• The Toleration Act

• The Stamp Act