Series - Foundations of the United States

The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, marks a pivotal moment in American history. Thomas Jefferson, tasked with drafting the document, captured the colonies’ collective resolve for freedom from British rule. The Continental Congress debated and revised Jefferson’s draft, ultimately producing a powerful proclamation that articulated the colonies’ desire for independence and their grievances against King George III.
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The United States Bill of Rights, ratified on December 15, 1791, firmly establishes the fundamental rights and liberties of American citizens. Crafted by James Madison, these first ten amendments to the Constitution respond directly to calls from several states for greater constitutional protection for individual freedoms. The Bill of Rights outlines specific prohibitions on governmental power, ensuring that citizens retain essential rights that the government cannot infringe upon.
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The Articles of Confederation, ratified in 1781, served as the first constitution of the United States, following the nation’s declaration of independence from British rule. Crafted by the Second Continental Congress, this document aimed to provide a framework for governance among the newly formed states. However, its structure reflected a cautious approach to central authority, as the colonists were wary of repeating the abuses they had experienced under British rule.
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The Federalist Papers also known as The Federalist, comprising of 85 articles and essays, were written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay between 1787 and 1788. These essays, published under the pseudonym “Publius,” aimed to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution. Addressing various aspects of government structure and individual rights, the papers serve as a foundational text in American political thought.
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The United States Constitution is the foundational legal document that establishes the framework for the American government and outlines the rights of its citizens. Drafted during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787, it was ratified by the states in 1788 and went into effect in 1789.
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