The
document that stated that certain rights were not given by the
government, but that men were born with them was the Declaration of
Independence. This applied to all men and women equally.
The
articles of confederation and the U.S.
Constitution also played a big role since they united the individual
states and established the federal government. The national
government and fundamental laws, guarantying the basic rights for the
citizens respectively.
I hope it helps, Regards.
