This..essentially works as a baseline for me..
conservatism
n.
1.The inclination, especially in politics, to maintain the existing or traditional order.
2.A political philosophy or attitude emphasizing respect for traditional institutions, distrust of government activism, and opposition to sudden change in the established order.
3.Conservatism The principles and policies of the Conservative Party in the United Kingdom or of the Progressive Conservative Party in Canada.
4.Caution or moderation, as in behavior or outlook.
conservatism: Definition from Answers.com
Let's talk about Conservatives before the Magna Charter! They treated common citizen like do-do, for they had them by the sword and wouldn't let go. When they wrote the Magna Charter, they thought that was a really liberal document, while in reality it isn't a good as The U.S. Constitution during slavery, as folks starved to death and finally came to America in droves. The truth is the wealthy made out like a bandit as everyday folks lost their homes, cars, savings, IRAs, retirement money, and self-respect! Still, they want to kiss the wealthy butts so they won't lose their jobs, which only will make things worse for now they know− they gotcha, as they do not care about you, all they want is mo-money! If you do not believe me then check your candidates' background for your sake!
PEACE & LOVE!
The Magna Carta was under English Law, England, not the USA. Colonies fell under it before the Revolution. The Articles of Confederation governed the Union for a decade before the Constitution.
For the record, most of us want more money, liberals and conservatives alike. How about you? You need more than you have or do you want to donate?