Declaration of Independence

What is the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

To explain why the choices were separating from Britain and to formally declare independence.

What rights does the Declaration say are “unalienable”?

Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

According to the Declaration, where do governments get their just powers from?

From the consent of the governed (the people)

When do people have the right to overthrow their government?

When the government becomes destructive of their rights and leads to tyranny.

Why were the colonists reluctant to change their government at first?

People are more likely to suffer under bad government than to risk change—unless abuses become unbearable.

List three major complaints against King George III.

• Taxation without consent

• Quartering troops in homes

• Dissolving legislatures

• Denying trial by jury

• Keeping standing armies in peacetime

How did the colonists try to resolve conflicts before declaring independence?

By sending repeated petitions for redress, which Britain ignored or answered with more oppression.

What final action does the Declaration announce?

That the colonies are free and independent states, no longer under British rule.

What powers do the new independent states claim?

Power to levy war, make peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and act as sovereign nations.

What pledge do the signers make at the end of the Declaration?

To each other, they pledge their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor