The political history of South Africa is profiled - from early times through the caste system to slavery and then apartheid, and finally democracy. Text plus a graphic chronological flow chart make the topic visually appealing and of...

Site in which students can zoom in on the actual Declaration of Independence document.

This article, published in the IIAS newsletter (November, 2003), discusses the issues surrounding the Chinese minority living in Vietnam, and how colonial governments such as the French dealt with the group. The article is provided in...

These journals from the Continental Congress of the United States will provide students with a greater understanding of the foundations of American government as established in the late 18th century. Includes handwritten documents by...

Independence Hall Association provides a listing of important colonial dates. Also listed are the historical events which the Bell commemorates throughout American History.

This page is a chapter from the book entitled "The Americans in Panama." It provides information about the colonial period of Panamanian history. "Panama's relations with the parent government at Bogota, from 1821, the year of...

After the War of Independence, Americans were unable to agree on the form of their federal government. This unit explores how those conflicts played out as the new Republic defined its identity in relation to other nations.

In this lesson, 5th graders learn about the many societal structures that developed in colonial days, including the conditions for self-government in America, the free-market economy, and the slavery system. Background information for...

Writings of philosopher John Locke on religious toleration, government and society from which students will gain an understanding of the underpinnings of American government.

Enjoy spending some time searching through the central archives service for the government of British Columbia which "provides research access to records of enduring value to the province for both the provincial government and public...

A 16-page history of the establishment and growth of the colony of Jamestown. Covers the early challenges, the starving time, the Virginia Company, the conflict with Powhatan, the beginnings of the tobacco economy, the introduction of...

The Library of Congress offers a complete country study of Haiti. Content includes a look at this country's geography, history, government, and society. Information current to 1989.

View the complete text of the 1620 British Charter for the settlement of New England granting authority to colonize and govern.

Provides the full text of the Mayflower Compact, the first written framework of government in what is now the United States.

The 18th-century statesmen who met in Philadelphia were adherents of Montesquieu's concept of the balance of power in politics. This principle was supported by colonial experience and strengthened by the writings of John Locke, with...

View the complete text of the New England Articles of Confederation 1643, an alliance of the English colonies of Massachusetts Bay, Plymouth, Connecticut, and New Haven.

In a chapter from William Morey's 1901 textbook, he explains the make-up of the Roman populus at the beginning of the Late Republic.

Two opposing philosophies concerning the relationship between government and its citizens were expressed by Thomas Hobbes and John Locke in the 17th century. Compare these two philosophies and see how they were related to the colonists'...

This resource gives a comprehensive account of the Intolerable Acts, why they were passed, colonists' reactions, and particulars surrounding the Massachusetts Government Act and other Coercive Acts with text links and references.

A review of the Age of Revolution, particularly as it was perceived in the American colonies. See how the various actions taken by the British government to control the colonists resulted in uniting the colonists and set the stage for...

The major cities in colonial America played a huge role in preparing for the Revolutionary War, both in terms of ways of governing and philosophy. Read about Philadelphia, Williamsburg, New York, and Boston and the events in those cities...

See how colonial and state constitutions differed and how the idea of a social contract between a government and its citizens is reflected in the state constitutions. The second half of this site gives an abbreviated text of the Articles...

Using primary texts and prior study of Colonial America and the Revolution, students examine "what type of government would best represent the ideals of the American Revolution." Worksheets, discussions, and role-playing within this...

Written before the Declaration of Independence, this lengthy essay by Thomas Jefferson argued that the British Government was treating America unfairly. This site contains full text and footnotes within text hyperlinked to panel at...