Heimler's AP Gov DOI

Preamble

The introduction of the Declaration of Independence that provides justification for independence.

List of Grievances

Complaints against King George III outlined in the Declaration.

Resolution for Independence

The formal statement of the colonies' break from Britain.

Natural Rights

Philosophical concept by John Locke stating that all men are endowed with unalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Social Contract

The theory proposed by Rousseau stating that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that power comes from the people.

Right to Revolution

The idea that people can alter or abolish a government that violates their rights.

Enlightenment Ideals

Philosophical concepts that influenced the Declaration, including natural rights, social contract, and popular sovereignty.

Goal of the Declaration of Independence

To justify the revolution, unify colonists, and gain foreign allies.

Jefferson's modification of Locke

Modified 'life, liberty, property' to 'life, liberty, pursuit of happiness' in the Declaration.