Unit 9 — The Founding of the United States and the Constitution

Welcome to Grade 8 United States History!

The history of the United States includes the development of new political ideas, the struggle for independence, the creation of a constitutional government, and the continued effort to expand liberty and opportunity.

Understanding this history helps explain many of the institutions, freedoms, and responsibilities that shape American society today.

In this unit, you will explore the founding of the United States and the creation of its constitutional system of government.

The American Colonies

Before the United States became an independent nation, thirteen British colonies developed along the Atlantic coast of North America.

The colonies differed in:

• geography
• economy
• religion
• culture
• government

Despite these differences, many colonists shared growing concerns about their relationship with Great Britain.

Growing Tensions

Following the French and Indian War, the British government imposed new taxes and regulations on the colonies.

Many colonists objected, arguing that they should not be taxed without representation in Parliament.

Events that increased tension included:

• the Stamp Act
• the Boston Massacre
• the Boston Tea Party
• the Intolerable Acts

These events helped unite many colonists in opposition to British policies.

The Declaration of Independence

In 1776, representatives of the colonies approved the Declaration of Independence.

The document announced that the colonies were becoming independent states.

It presented important ideas including:

• equality
• natural rights
• government by the consent of the governed
• the right of people to alter or replace governments that fail to protect their rights

The Declaration became one of the most influential political documents in history.

The American Revolution

The American Revolution was fought between the colonies and Great Britain.

The war lasted from 1775 to 1783.

Important figures included:

• George Washington
• Thomas Jefferson
• Benjamin Franklin
• John Adams
• Alexander Hamilton

With assistance from important allies, the colonies achieved independence.

The Constitution

After independence, leaders recognized the need for a stronger national government.

In 1787, delegates met to write the United States Constitution.

The Constitution established:

• the structure of the federal government
• the powers of each branch
• limits on governmental authority
• methods for changing the Constitution

It remains the supreme law of the United States.

The Three Branches of Government

The Constitution divides power among three branches.

Legislative Branch

• makes laws

Executive Branch

• carries out laws

Judicial Branch

• interprets laws

This separation of powers helps prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Checks and Balances

The Constitution also created a system of checks and balances.

Each branch has certain powers that help limit the authority of the others.

This system encourages cooperation while helping prevent the abuse of power.

The Bill of Rights

Soon after the Constitution was adopted, ten amendments were added.

These first ten amendments are known as the Bill of Rights.

They protect many important freedoms, including:

• freedom of speech
• freedom of religion
• freedom of the press
• freedom of assembly
• the right to petition the government
• protections in criminal proceedings

The Bill of Rights continues to play an important role in American law.

Citizenship

Citizens play an essential role in constitutional government.

Responsibilities include:

• obeying laws
• serving on juries when called
• voting when eligible
• staying informed
• respecting the rights of others
• contributing to the community

An informed and engaged citizenry helps strengthen democratic institutions.

Activity

Complete the following:

• create a timeline of major events leading to independence
• identify the purposes of the Declaration of Independence
• explain the structure of the Constitution
• describe the responsibilities of each branch of government
• summarize five protections found in the Bill of Rights
• write a reflection on why constitutional government remains important today

Support your ideas with historical evidence.

Practice

Answer these questions.

Why did tensions develop between the colonies and Great Britain?

What ideas are expressed in the Declaration of Independence?

Why was the Constitution written?

What are the three branches of government?

What is the purpose of checks and balances?

Why is the Bill of Rights important?

Review

Today you learned:

• the thirteen colonies developed unique societies
• disagreements with Great Britain led to the American Revolution
• the Declaration of Independence expressed important political ideals
• the Constitution established a constitutional system of government
• powers are divided among three branches
• checks and balances help prevent excessive concentration of power
• the Bill of Rights protects important individual freedoms

The founding of the United States established principles and institutions that continue to influence American government and civic life.

Looking Ahead

Next we will examine westward expansion, industrialization, the Civil War, Reconstruction, immigration, and the transformation of the United States into a modern nation.