LAD #1 Mayflower Compact & Fundemental Orders

1) What concepts are included in the Mayflower Compact?

The Mayflower Compact includes a form of government and protection of liberty. It also includes a system of laws, acts, constitutions, and officers for the good and protection of the colonists.

2) How does the Mayflower Compact reflect and attachment to both the "Old" and "New" worlds?

Although it establishes a self governing system for the colony, it is only a colony and the mother country rules over it. And the colony also feels ties to the mother country this is seen because the Compact states that it is signed in the Reign of our Sovereign Lord King James.

3) How did the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut differ from the Mayflower Compact?

The Fundamental Order differs from the Compact because it goes into much more detail of how it was going to govern its people and protect them. Furthermore, it calls for general assemblies, court systems, a magistrate, and a secretary. It contains more specific elements from a democracy.

4) What prompted the colonists of Connecticut to take this approach to government, i.e.: use of a written Constitution?

The colonists are gathered together under the word of God and this requires peace and union of the colonist under a single government. The colonists must maintain liberty.

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 Orders reflect fear of usurping of power because much power is given to limit the rights of those participating in government. For example, deputies can fine anyone whom they believe is disorderly during a meeting. Also, a moderator can order the court to silence unseasonable and disorderly speakings.