History before the Revolutionary Era

John Locke, the philosopher, stated that all individuals have the right to “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Property.” Thomas Jefferson, former President, suggested that Happiness should replace Property in Locke’s statement. Most of Americans depend on property to achieve happiness. For instance, before the American Revolution, slavery was used as a form of property, congregations did not have the freedom to explore other churches or religions, and the government set regulations that were …

…the liberal outlook inspired by John Locke and celebrated the pursuit of individual self-interest. Long after the war ended, Americans continued to debate the social and cultural meaning of republicanism. State governments in the North began the gradual abolition of slavery, but those in the South refused to extend freedom to most African Americans. However, throughout the new nation there was growing commitment to freedom of religious worship and the separation of church and state.