Foundations of American Democracy · 1600 – 1791

Enlightenment Philosophy & Natural Rights

Analyzing Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau's influence on the Declaration of Independence and the concept of the social contract.

Key Questions

  1. 1How did the shift from divine right to natural rights revolutionize governance?
  2. 2Is the social contract a historical fact or a theoretical necessity?
  3. 3To what extent did the Founders prioritize order over individual liberty?

Common Core State Standards

C3: D2.Civ.8.9-12C3: D2.His.1.9-12
Grade: 12th Grade
Subject: Government & Economics
Unit: Foundations of American Democracy
Period: 1600 – 1791

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