“Uncover the Surprising Secrets Behind the Birth of American Democracy: 14 Facts That Will Change How You View History!”
The Magna Carta emphasized individual rights and due process, two ideas that became central to American democracy and directly influenced the drafting of the Bill of Rights.
5. The Pilgrims and the Mayflower Compact
Before landing at Plymouth, the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower signed the Mayflower Compact, a document that established self-governance based on the will of the settlers. This compact is often viewed as a foundational step toward American democracy.
The Compact set a precedent for a social contract, where people agreed to follow rules created for the common good. This idea would later play a huge role in American political thought.
6. The Revolutionary Power of the Declaration of Independence
Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration of Independence didn’t just declare separation from Britain, it introduced groundbreaking ideas of equality, individual rights, and government by consent. Its famous phrases became rallying cries for freedom and set the philosophical tone for the new nation.
Though it wasn’t a governing document, the Declaration influenced future democracies worldwide and became an enduring symbol of American ideals.
7. The Articles of Confederation
![Foundation of the American Government by John Henry Hintermeister.[1] Published by the Osborne company, Newark, N.J. From the painting's copyright description Signing of the Constitution.](https://i0.wp.com/www.newinterestingfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Foundation-of-the-American-Government-by-John-Henry-Hintermeister.1-Published-by-the-Osborne-company-Newark-N.J.-From-the-paintings-copyright-description-Signing-of-the-Constitution.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&ssl=1 "14 Facts About the Origins of American Democracy 7")
Before the Constitution, the United States tried out the Articles of Confederation. This early attempt created a loose federation of states with a weak central government that lacked the power to enforce laws or collect taxes.
