English colonization: Began in the 17th century with motives rooted in economic gain and religious freedom, leading to the establishment of colonies in North America.
13 colonies: A group of British settlements established along the Atlantic coast, each with unique regional characteristics, forming the foundation of what would become the United States.
Indigenous displacement: The process during colonization where Indigenous peoples were pushed out of their lands, often resulting in loss of territory and cultural disruption.
common law: A legal system introduced by the British influence, characterized by law developed through judicial decisions and customs, shaping colonial governance.
representative institutions: Colonial governing bodies that allowed settlers to participate in decision-making, reflecting British political traditions.
Puritan moral mission: The Puritans’ religious goal to create a community based on their moral and religious principles, contributing to the idea of Americans as a 'chosen people' with a special destiny.
1. Who is credited with formulating the concept of the moral mission that contributed to American Exceptionalism?
2. How are the colonial assemblies similar or different from British political institutions?
3. How might the principle of American Exceptionalism be practically applied in a policymaking context?
English colonization — motives?
Economic gain and religious freedom
13 colonies — significance?
Foundation of the United States
Indigenous displacement — effect?
Loss of land and culture
Common law — influence?
Shaped colonial legal systems
Representative institutions — role?
Allowed colonial self-governance
Puritan moral mission — impact?
Founded American exceptionalism
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