Fundamental Orders of 1638-1639

The Fundamental Orders of 1638-1639 were a set of rules established by the settlers of Connecticut to govern their colony. Considered one of the first written constitutions in America, they outlined how the government would function, including elected leaders and voting rights. These orders emphasized limits on government power and the importance of community participation, helping to create a more organized and fair political system. Essentially, they laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles by establishing a structured, representative government for the settlers.