The American colonists began the ideas of constitutional governments.

they wanted to ensure that their rights were protected. what ideas did they include in there government and why?

1. The statements below are from the Declaration of Independence.

Source: Public Domain

Which statement reflects the Enlightenment ideas of natural law as expressed by Locke?

A. A B. B C. C D. D

Founding fathers like Thomas Jefferson were influenced by many Enlightenment ideals. These ideas were incorporated in important founding documents like the Declaration of Independence. The statement, "All men ... are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness" reflects the Enlightenment ideals as expressed by John Locke. Locke wrote at length about natural law and natural rights. His writings argued that all people are born with natural rights to life, liberty and property. He believed these rights were independent of any government or social laws.