Answer to Question #164320 in History for Christina

Question

The men who founded our country were well-read in history. While they were influenced by British political traditions, they looked primarily to the Ancient world for inspiration the Constitution of the United States. Many historians have emphasized the importance of the Greek philosophers, but Thomas Ricks, in his book, First Principles, argues that the Roman Republic had the strongest influence on the founding fathers. Read the Prologue to Rick's book and discuss what you think are the most important contributions of Rome to the United States Constitution. Why do you think the founding fathers were drawn to the Roman Republic?

(128 words required)

Answer 1

Influence of Rome on American Constitution

Research shows that Rome has a very impactful influence on the development of the United States constitution. This is evident in some aspects of similarity that exist in the current United States constitution and that of ancient Rome. First, Romans created a legal code that enhanced the protection of the rights of all citizens. Consequently, this Roman document provided a basis in drafting and creation of bill of rights in the current United States constitution. Some crucial provisions drawn from the bill of rights have been adopted in other nations across the world, hence showing the extent of the Roman influence in the global legal fraternity. Secondly, the political leadership of, the roman empire constituted various political bodies like the senate and the assemblies, which were adopted by the United States and included in their constitution.