LAD/Blog #1: Mayflower Compact/Fundamental Orders of CT
1.) What concepts are included in the Mayflower Compact?
The Mayflower Compact is written by the colonists of Virginia who possess loyalty towards their king, religion, and country. They agree on the establishment of a united political body which serves to benefit the colony, with the enforcement of equal laws and acts, signaling a democratic government.
2.) How does the Mayflower Compact reflect an attachment to both the "Old" and "New" worlds?
The compact connects to the Old World on account of the colonists residing in North America, yet still viewing King James and God with high respects and regards. Their democratic stance on governing their colony provides a contrast to England's monarchy and along with their geographic location, relates to the New World.
3.) How did the fundamental orders of Connecticut differ from the Mayflower Compact?
The Fundamental Orders dives further into detail with subjects concerning the government while the Mayflower Compact is quite general and broad. There are 11 laws in the Fundamental Orders that cover topics ranging from the election process for public officials to town meetings. Additionally, it does not mention of the King of England, while the Mayflower Compact was transparent on about their positive views towards him.
The Fundamental Orders dives further into detail with subjects concerning the government while the Mayflower Compact is quite general and broad. There are 11 laws in the Fundamental Orders that cover topics ranging from the election process for public officials to town meetings. Additionally, it does not mention of the King of England, while the Mayflower Compact was transparent on about their positive views towards him.
4.) What prompted the colonists of Connecticut to take this approach to government, i.e.: use of a written constitution?
It is fair to assume that the colonists did not favor the King of England, judging from their decision on leaving any reference to him. By writing this constitution, it grants them more independence and freedom to make choices, whereas they may have felt restricted previously with the king managing their decisions.
It is fair to assume that the colonists did not favor the King of England, judging from their decision on leaving any reference to him. By writing this constitution, it grants them more independence and freedom to make choices, whereas they may have felt restricted previously with the king managing their decisions.
5.) In what significant way(s) does the Fundamental Orders reflect a fear of and safeguard against the usurping of power by one person or a chosen few?
The colonists in all four towns hold a great amount of influence and power in their hands. They have the opportunity to appoint their governors, which can only serve for two years, thus eliminating the possibility of excessive control. Each town is also allowed to send four deputies to participate in the general court, which encourages new ideas and a chance for them to be equally represented.
The colonists in all four towns hold a great amount of influence and power in their hands. They have the opportunity to appoint their governors, which can only serve for two years, thus eliminating the possibility of excessive control. Each town is also allowed to send four deputies to participate in the general court, which encourages new ideas and a chance for them to be equally represented.
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