In this Grade 8 lesson from America: History of Our Nation, students examine how English political traditions such as the Magna Carta, Parliament, the English Bill of Rights, and habeas corpus shaped colonial government in the 13 colonies. The lesson covers key concepts including the role of colonial legislatures, freedom of the press as established through the John Peter Zenger case, and how the Navigation Acts influenced the colonial economy. Students also explore the rights of English subjects, including protections like trial by jury and the significance of a bill of rights.
Section 1
English Documents Protected Citizens' Rights
The Magna Carta (1215) and English Bill of Rights (1689) limited monarchs' powers, established Parliament's authority to approve taxes, and guaranteed citizens' freedoms like trial by jury and habeas corpus.
Section 2
Colonists Established Self-Government Systems
American colonies formed legislatures like Virginia's House of Burgesses and Massachusetts' General Court. By 1760, all colonies had legislatures, though voting rights extended only to white males.
Section 3
Zenger's Trial Defended Press Freedom
In 1735, publisher John Peter Zenger was charged with libel for criticizing the governor. His lawyer argued that truthful statements should not be considered libel, establishing the principle of freedom of the press.
Section 4
Navigation Acts Regulated Colonial Trade
England's Navigation Acts (1651) controlled colonial imports and exports, ensuring goods passed through England first. These laws benefited colonial traders with guaranteed markets but limited their access to foreign markets.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter
Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.
Section 1
English Documents Protected Citizens' Rights
The Magna Carta (1215) and English Bill of Rights (1689) limited monarchs' powers, established Parliament's authority to approve taxes, and guaranteed citizens' freedoms like trial by jury and habeas corpus.
Section 2
Colonists Established Self-Government Systems
American colonies formed legislatures like Virginia's House of Burgesses and Massachusetts' General Court. By 1760, all colonies had legislatures, though voting rights extended only to white males.
Section 3
Zenger's Trial Defended Press Freedom
In 1735, publisher John Peter Zenger was charged with libel for criticizing the governor. His lawyer argued that truthful statements should not be considered libel, establishing the principle of freedom of the press.
Section 4
Navigation Acts Regulated Colonial Trade
England's Navigation Acts (1651) controlled colonial imports and exports, ensuring goods passed through England first. These laws benefited colonial traders with guaranteed markets but limited their access to foreign markets.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter