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Curriculum

Founders and the Constitution

Essential Question

Who were the Founders of the United States of America? Introduce students to twenty-four individuals who had a direct impact on the founding of our constitutional government. Explore the lives and ideas of the Founders, analyze their writings, and appreciate each Founder's role in shaping our government.

Published
Apr 11, 2014
A government and civics curriculum that explores the Founders

 

Curriculum resources

Portrait of a man in historical clothing with a dark background, showcasing 18th-century style.
LessonCharles Carroll of Carrollton (1737-1832)

What was Charles Carroll of Carrollton's role as a leader during the revolution? How did he champion religious tolerance?

Portrait of a man with white hair and a serious expression, wearing a brown coat and white cravat, against a dark background.
LessonJohn Adams (1735-1826)

What role did John Adams play in the American Revolution? How did go on to help shape the new nation as president, and what were his reasons for and objections to the Alien and Sedition Acts?

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LessonBenjamin Franklin (1706-1790)

How did Benjamin Franklin contribute to his community and country? Evaluate the Albany plan, analyze Franklin's efforts to oppose slavery, and much more.

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LessonElbridge Gerry (1744-1814)

What was Elbridge Gerry's role as a leader in the American opposition to British tyranny? Why did he oppose the Constitution? And why does his legacy include the tactic of gerrymandering?

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LessonPatrick Henry (1736-1799)

Why is Patrick Henry called the "The Orator of Liberty" and why did he oppose the Constitution?

Portrait of a man with light hair, wearing a dark coat and a white cravat, set against a dark background.
LessonThomas Jefferson (1743-1826)

What efforts did Thomas Jefferson make to protect individual rights and human liberty during the Founding? And what contradictions exist between his words and his actions?

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LessonRichard Henry Lee (1732-1794)

What were Richard Henry Lee's views on the slave trade? What was his role as a leader of the American opposition to British tyranny, and why did he oppose the Constitution?

Founder James Madison
LessonJames Madison (1751-1836)

Why is James Madison called, "The Father of the Constitution"? What were his views on the Bill of Rights? What was his remedy for the problem of factions in a democratic republic?

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LessonGeorge Mason (1725-1792)

What were George Mason's views on rights? Why did he object to the Constitution? And why did he remain devoted to personal liberty and states' rights?

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LessonRobert Morris (1734-1806)

What role did Robert Morris play as a leader of the American opposition to British tyranny? How did he help stabilize the finances of the United States and support of the Constitution?

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LessonCharles Pinckney (1757-1824)

How did Charles Pinckney contribute to the Founding? What were his views on the Articles of Confederation and what was his role at the Constitutional Convention?

A seated man in 19th-century clothing with a serious expression against a dark backdrop.
LessonRoger Sherman (1721-1793)

What contributions did Roger Sherman make to public service during the early republic? Examine his views on the proper division of power between state and national government, and his view on the role of government.

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