Final answer:
The law of England provided the roots for U.S. law, as the American founders were influenced by English government, political traditions, and thinkers from the Enlightenment era.
Step-by-step explanation:
The roots for U.S. law primarily originate from the law of England. This is evident in the fact that many of the American founders were of English descent, and they were influenced by English government and political traditions. An example of the English influence can be seen through the founders’ readings of William Blackstone’s Commentaries on English law. In addition to English structures and legal principles, American founders were inspired by Enlightenment thinkers such as Locke, Voltaire, and Rousseau, integrating concepts such as the separation of powers, and the idea that governments should reflect the "general will" of the people into the newly established United States government.
Throughout the American colonies' transformation into the United States, the influence of English law and philosophy was fundamental in shaping the nation’s legal and governmental framework. For example, distinct elements like the system of common law that has its roots in England, and principles of constitutional governance informed the American legal system. Furthermore, the political discourse of the day, which included thoughts on civil rights and the administration of justice, often made reference to corresponding English traditions and literature.