Bell Ringers

Bell Ringer: Philosopher Montesquieu

Philosopher Montesquieu

Author Michael Oreskes talks about Montesquieu's view on democracy and his influence on the framers of the U.S. Constitution.

Description

Author Michael Oreskes talks about Montesquieu's view on democracy and his influence on the framers of the U.S. Constitution.

Bell Ringer Assignment

  • Who was Montesquieu and what impact did he have on the development of the U.S. Constitution?
  • Which form of democracy is outlined in the U.S. Constitution? Explain Montesquieu’s vision of democracy.
  • How did the framers of the Constitution like James Madison, go “beyond Montesquieu?” According to Mr. Oreskes, why did Madison believe including a Bill of Rights in the Constitution was unnecessary?
  • After the framers completed the Constitution in 1787, how did people react to the document? What did Madison and the other framers do in response

Participants

Vocabulary

  • Aristocracy
  • Athens
  • Bill Of Rights
  • Checks And Balances
  • Democracy
  • French Revolution
  • Monarchy

Topics

Constitutional FoundationEnglish & LiteratureU.S. History