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This landmark document laid the foundation for modern democracy by establishing the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law. It influenced many constitutional documents, including the U.S. Constitution. -
This pivotal document declared the thirteen American colonies' independence from British rule. It set forth the ideals of individual freedom and government by consent, influencing democratic movements worldwide. -
The Constitution established America's national government and fundamental laws while guaranteeing certain basic rights. It remains the supreme law of the land and a cornerstone of American democracy. -
Preserves the right to a jury trial in civil cases. -
Clarifies that the enumeration of certain rights does not deny other rights retained by the people. -
Prohibits the quartering of soldiers in private homes without consent. -
Protects the right to keep and bear arms. -
Guarantees freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. -
Guards against unreasonable searches and seizures. -
States that powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people. -
Guarantees the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury. -
Prohibits excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment. -
Provides for the right to due process and protects against self-incrimination. -
Limits the ability of individuals to sue states in federal court. -
In January 1917, British cryptographers deciphered a telegram from German Foreign Minister Arthur Zimmermann to the German Minister to Mexico, Heinrich von Eckhardt, offering United States territory to Mexico in return for joining the German cause. -
Between 1935 and 1937 Congress passed three "Neutrality Acts" that tried to keep the United States out of war, by making it illegal for Americans to sell or transport arms, or other war materials to belligerent nations. -
On Dec. 7, 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The assault killed or wounded more than 3,500 American troops and civilians; severely damaged the fleet; and shocked the nation. -
The Declaration outlines 30 rights and freedoms that belong to all of us and that nobody can take away from us. -
This landmark Supreme Court case ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, overturning the "separate but equal" doctrine established by Plessy v. Ferguson. This decision was a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement and had a lasting impact on U.S. law and society. -
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution were added to protect individual liberties and limit government power. This crucial development ensured fundamental rights for U.S. citizens.