Declaration of Independence and Packet Vocabulary

Vocabulary terms and key factual definitions from the Declaration of Independence and The Road to American Revolution packet review notes.

Providence

The theological concept that God continuously upholds, governs, and directs all things in the universe toward a purposeful design and ultimate end, including God's preservation of creation, his cooperation with everything that happens, and his guiding of the universe.

Usurpation

The wrongful, illegal, or unconstitutional seizure and holding of power, a throne, an office, or authority by force and without the right to do so; illegally overstepping boundaries or infringing on the rights and powers of another person or coequal branch of government; unlawful occupation of another person's property, role, or duties without permission.

Consanguinity

Being "of the same blood" (derived from the Latin words com- meaning "together" and sanguineus meaning "blood"), referring to a blood relationship or kinship between two individuals who share a common ancestor.

"pyrrhic" victory

A victory where both sides are severely exhausted and damaged even though one side emerges victorious in the end.

Declaration of Independence Grievances

A list of 27 grievances or charges presented by Thomas Jefferson detailing actions the British took that angered and disturbed Americans.

"A long train of abuses"

A phrase from the Declaration of Independence referring to the pattern of British actions and grievances that angered and disturbed Americans.