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Civic Education Resources

 

PRIMARY SOURCE DOCUMENTS



DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

One of the most important documents in the world and probably the most important document in U.S. history next to the Constitution. It is the first time people decided to stand up and form a self-governing society absent of a king or absolute ruler, which eventually led to the creation of free societies all around the world.


THE FEDERALIST PAPERS

The essays, which appeared in newspapers addressed to the people of the state of New York, are known as the Federalist Papers. They are regarded as one of the most authoritative sources on the meaning of the Constitution, including constitutional principles such as checks and balances, federalism, and separation of powers.

 

THE FUNDAMENTAL ORDERS OF CONNECTICUT

The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut is the first written constitution as a permanent limitation on governmental power known in history.

 

LINCOLN'S WRITINGS

A collection of Lincoln's most renowned work including the Gettysburg Address, Proclamation of Amnesty and Lincoln's Letter to Mrs. Bixby

 

TREATY WITH GREAT BRITAIN (1814)

All Americans should know this treaty which ended "The War of 1812" and finally inaugurated an era of peace and good understanding with England. To this day this peace has been unbroken.

 

FIRST CHARTER OF VIRGINIA

Before English adventurers could attempt settlement in America it was necessary first to get permission from the King. The charter of King James to the oldest American colony is an extremely important historical document.

 

Emerson's CONCORD HYMN

Written by Emerson in honor of the Battle of Concord.

 

Washington's FIRST INAUGURAL ADDRESS

One of the most important days in world history.

 

Haskell's BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG

The Battle of Gettysburg as observed by an eyewitness. An officer in that momentous battle narrates every major action of both armies. Thus we see the swarming lines of Confederates advance—the hand-to-hand struggle.

 

TREATY WITH GREAT BRITAIN (1783)

Until 1783 the British refused to believe that the Liberty Bell had rung. Then they signed a treaty formally recognizing the Colonies as free and independent states.

 

Washington's FAREWELL ADDRESS

The significance of this event cannot be overstated. It is the first time that a leader of nation voluntarily stepped down from power, with his successor being a leader also elected by the people. It was the moment when government by the people was actually realized.

 

 

Free MP3 Audiobook Downloads

 



Listen on the go to these primary source documents to help develop your sense of civic duty and the privileges associated



DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE - (MP3)

THE FEDERALIST PAPERS - (MP3)

THE FUNDAMENTAL ORDERS OF CONNECTICUT - (MP3)

LINCOLN'S WRITINGS - (MP3)

Washington's FIRST INAUGURAL ADDRESS - (MP3)

 

 

Links to More Civic Education Resources

 


 

Center for Civic Education - 60-Second Civics     Daily 1 minute lessons on Civics


Bill of Rights Institute

iCivics