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Unit

The Bill of Rights and The Founders

Guiding question

Provides an introduction and overview of the Bill of Rights, including the Founders’ understanding of the “rights of Englishmen,” British law, and natural rights philosophy. This unit also examines the Federalist and Anti-Federalist debate about a bill of rights.

Published
Nov 6, 2020
White marble statue of a seated man in historical clothing, depicting a serious expression.

Lessons

A seated white marble statue of a man in 18th-century attire, displaying intricate details.
What Are the Origins of the Bill of Rights?
  • 4 Activities
  • 60 min

How did the the events and philosophies from British and colonial history shape the Founders' ideas about natural rights as well as the rights of Englishmen? How do these rights affect our daily lives in a free society?

Historical document with faded text, titled "Congress of the United States," detailing resolutions from 1783.
Why A Bill of Rights? What Impact Does It Have?
  • 3 Activities
  • 45 min

The debate over the Bill of Rights at the Founding was not an argument over whether rights exist, but about how best to protect those rights. The Founders disagreed about whether a bill of rights was necessary, and whether it would be effective. Later generations continue to face the challenge of finding the best way to safeguard individual rights. This lesson explores these debates and discussions.

Standards

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