The American system of government didn’t come about overnight. It was built upon centuries of ideas and influences from civilizations that came before it. But where did these ideas come from, and how did they shape the founding principles of the United States?

In this episode of The American Government Curriculum Companion, we review the historical foundations of American government, starting with the democratic principles of Ancient Athens and the republic of Ancient Rome. We’ll then examine the impact of key English documents, such as the Magna Carta and the English Bill of Rights, and how they introduced concepts like limited government and individual rights. Finally, we’ll discuss the Enlightenment thinkers—John Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau—whose ideas on natural rights, separation of powers, and the social contract became the backbone of American democracy.

This episode is designed to accompany our unit plan on the Foundations of American Government for our complete Civics and American Government Curriculum, which includes resources and lessons designed for middle school and high school classrooms.

Students of History provides engaging lessons and resources for every unit in Civics & Government, along with US History, World History, and World Geography. You can learn more at StudentsofHistory.com.