The American system of government was established in the 1660’s with the 13 colonies, they became a self governing body under British rule. The American government and it foundations of our current laws are based on the theories of the enlightenment movement leaders John Locke and Thomas Hobbes. The theories that these men believed and promoted became the outline to the Declaration of Independence and later the American Constitution establishing one of the world’s longest running democracies. Both leaders were influenced in different ways by the Protestant Reformation that encouraged free think and the questioning of the Catholic church and it rules for sociality, as well as the British Civil war of 1642-1651 that help establish the
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He also provided arguments for religious toleration as he convinced others that religious diversity would be a benefit to society. Locke 's social contract provides the right to extract retribution for crimes in return for impartial protection backed by overwhelming force. In his theory the only important role of government is to insure justice for all citizens.(Connolly 2016) In contrast is the theories of Thomas Hobbes. Thomas Hobbes believed that “human nature” will not allow peace within a society without a government that has absolute power over all citizens.(Williams 2016) Thomas Hobbes was born in 1588 and died in 1679. He was not born into wealth however his uncle was wealthy enough to pay for his schooling and he eventually made it Oxford University. As a student at Oxford he was chosen to be the tudor for the noble family the Cavendish 's. Under their employment he was able to attend event where the King of England, members of Parliament and other wealthy land owners met and discuss political ideas. Hobbs later was the math tutor for the future King Charles II.(Williams,2016) During this time the British Civil War started in 1642 and lead to the King being executed and a
He also provided arguments for religious toleration as he convinced others that religious diversity would be a benefit to society. Locke 's social contract provides the right to extract retribution for crimes in return for impartial protection backed by overwhelming force. In his theory the only important role of government is to insure justice for all citizens.(Connolly 2016) In contrast is the theories of Thomas Hobbes. Thomas Hobbes believed that “human nature” will not allow peace within a society without a government that has absolute power over all citizens.(Williams 2016) Thomas Hobbes was born in 1588 and died in 1679. He was not born into wealth however his uncle was wealthy enough to pay for his schooling and he eventually made it Oxford University. As a student at Oxford he was chosen to be the tudor for the noble family the Cavendish 's. Under their employment he was able to attend event where the King of England, members of Parliament and other wealthy land owners met and discuss political ideas. Hobbs later was the math tutor for the future King Charles II.(Williams,2016) During this time the British Civil War started in 1642 and lead to the King being executed and a