His1100 Midterm Questions

HIS 1100

Midterm Part III

1. What factors motivated Europeans to explore and colonize the Americas?

Before the colonies were established, the Americas were seen as a land of opportunity. Europeans had a desire to practice religion of their choosing and pursue personal and national wealth. America was filled with natural resources that the English needed. In Europe, the Pope and the king of England were heads of their respective churches. The people were forced to abide by manmade rules as the heads of church forced them to pay unfair dues and matched political with religious authority. The English had exhausted their land and were fearful of losing power to Spain amongst other nations. The forests of America would provide material for ship-building, wood work, and land for farming. This was important in establishing an export economy and defensive warships to prevent reliance on other nations.

2. Describe John Locke’s “Contract Theory” of Government.

The basis of John Locke's "Contract Theory" had much to do with limiting the power of government. Its purpose should be to serve and protect the people. The influence is of course due to the tyranny of the king of England. The people should be able to overthrow a government that does not act in favor of the people. He believed in natural rights and liberties that all men should have. The government creates laws but to serve the rights of life, liberty, and property of its citizens. Private property is produced when a man makes use of the land. Political power is limited with absolute natural freedom and results in a lack of security.

3. In what ways does the structure of the United States Constitution reflect the political philosophy and concerns of its designers (the delegates to the Constitutional Convention in 1787)?