The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut:

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The Fundamental Orders provided the structure for the government of the Connecticut colony from 1639 to 1662, which was inspired by Thomas Hooker’s sermon. The document is made up of a preface (introductory statement) and 11 laws. The 11 laws had the same structure as the Massachusetts government and were consistent with the 17th-century trading company charters. The Orders state that the general courts had to convene every April and September. Also, at the April Court of Election, a governor and six magistrates had to be selected. Moreover, no man is allowed to serve as governor more than once every two years, which was a restriction that lasted until the year 1660. To prevent rushed, ill-considered choices, nominations for the election were made at the September General Court by the deputies from each town. Furthermore, no religious test was established for voting. The Orders eliminated all reference to the crown's authority, and the General Court was given supreme authority over the towns and their inhabitants. The General Court was certified to adopt and abolish laws, impose taxes, distribute lands, and capture and punish people for breach of law or misbehavior. But the right to elect deputies and magistrates was reserved to the freemen. As it can be seen it gave men more voting rights and increased their chances to be qualified for elections. Besides, the Orders provide a firm contrast to today’s concept about the segregation of church and state. The main goal was to form a confederation under the influence of God. Not to mention, it served as the basis for the government in Connecticut until 1662 and it was the reason why the General Assembly officially nominated Connecticut as “The Constitution State.”