1st post

In “A DECLARATION OF THE RIGHTS OF THE INHABITANTS OF THE COMMONWEALTH OR STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA” which was written in 1776 one of the rights stated that “the people of this State have the sole, exclusive and inherent right of governing and regulating the internal police of the same.” This idea was common throughout the constitutions of New Jersey, Maryland, and Alabama with phrases like “all political power is vested in and derived from the people only.” All these constitutions were transforming America into a nation run by citizens instead of a higher force.

Constitutions like that of Pennsylvania determined that the people would form the government with common interest in mind. It would also be formed without violence. It states that they must get together “to form for themselves such just rules as they shall think best, for governing their future society, and being fully convinced, that it is our indispensable duty to establish such original principles of government.” These constitutions were also advocating the equality of all men despite class, sect, or denomination. This did not however include equality regardless of race because slavery was a huge asset in the minds of the majority of people. It also did not include the equality of women. They were aiming for freedom of religion, which was not prevalent in European countries. The Cane Ridge revival of 1801 was the start of the restoration movement and the beginning of the unity of the church.

American life was transforming in the early 1800’s. More white men were gaining the right to vote. This expansion of voting rights lead to more democratic ways of electing government officials. Instead of states being ruled by the elite and powerful, people like David Crockett were coming into power. With his charming personality he was able to get elected into the legislature of Tennesee. He was not weathered like the other candidates but he was a real and was a perfect example of the thought that “humor, hunting skills, and male camaraderie were as important to electoral success as a clear stance on the issues of the day.”