Civics Collection
Influences on the U.S. Constitution

Introduction

The framers did not invent the concept of a democracy, a republic, or a constitution. Rather, they found inspiration from influences from ancient times to their contemporary world to create an unprecedented form of government. In 1787, their work laid the foundation for a constitutional government that would become a model used throughout the world. Having lived under a monarchy, the framers reimagined how governmental powers could be distributed and balanced. Knowing that their work might need to be updated over time, they also planned for ways that the constitution could be amended, or changed.

 

 

The first page of the U.S. Constitution.

An image shows yellowed parchment paper with elegant handwriting used to record the U.S. Constitution. Most of the handwriting cannot be read, except for the words: "We the People," and "Article 1."

An 1856 painting that imagines a scene from the Constitutional Convention of 1787.

A painting shows George Washington holding papers while addressing a room full of men, some seated and some standing. All men are dressed in the formal attire of 1787.

Borrowing key ideas from philosophers, great nations, and their peers, the framers developed the core principles of the United States Constitution, which include:

  • Separation of powers
  • Rule of law
  • Individual rights and liberties
  • Checks and balances

In this interactive lesson, you will learn about six of the influences on the U.S. Constitution, review excerpts of the Constitution, and identify and highlight the sections of text that reflect the influences you’ve learned about. At the end of the lesson, you’ll choose one section you identified and write a paragraph about its source and how it answers the essential question.

Essential Question

In what ways does the U.S. Constitution reflect various political ideas circulating at the time it was written?

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