The Constitution and the Idea of Compromise Why Celebrate Constitution Day? George Washington as Military Leader The Theory of the American Founding, Part 1: Why Government? The Theory of the American Founding, Part 2: Why Government by Consent? The Theory of the American Founding, Part 3: Why Equal Protection of the Law? George Washington and Religious Liberty George Washington and the Problem of Slavery George Washington and the Rule of Law George Washington and Civic Virtue Curriculum Developers

The Theory of the American Founding, Part One: Why Government? Overview This lesson discusses the idea of government – what government is, and why, from the point of view of the American Founders, government is not only necessary, but good, for human beings. Discussion questions follow the reading. Objective Students will analyze historical evidence including primary sources to understand why human nature indicates that government is necessary and good for citizens. Standards National Council for the Social Studies: Thematic Strands I, II, V, VI, X Arizona Academic Standards, Social Studies: 1SS-E17, E18; 2SS-E3, E7, P1, P5, P10 California History-Social Science Content Standards: 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4; 11.1; 12.1, 12.2 Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills: Social Studies 8.1, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.16, 8.21, 8.23; U.S. Government 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16 Bibliography Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, The Federalist Papers, ed. Clinton Rossiter, with Introduction and notes by Charles Kesler (New York: Mentor Books, 1999). Suggested Procedure: Write the word “government” on the board. Ask students what government is, and what government is supposed to do, and write some of their answers next to the word “government.” Then ask students whether they believe government is necessary, and, if so, why. After suggesting to students that maybe people can live together as neighbors and friends without government, distribute copies of the reading, "The Theory of the American Founding, Part One: Why Government?" Have students work individually or in groups to read the essay and complete the study questions. With the entire class, discuss the reading and the student responses to the questions. Copyright© 2002 The Claremont Institute. All rights reserved.