Declaration of Independence Notes

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts, components, quotes, and principles from the Declaration of Independence notes.

56 Signers

The number of signers in attendance who committed an act of treason against the crown by signing their name to the document.

Benjamin Franklin Quote

"We must indeed all hang together, or most assuredly, we shall all hang separately."

Four Major Components of the Declaration of Independence

1. Introduction, 2. Rights of the People (Natural Rights), 3. Complaints of the Colonists (Grievances), 4. Declaration of a new Nation.

Second Part of the Declaration

Lists the natural rights and explains that in a republic, people form a government to protect their rights (Social Contract).

Social Contract

The principle that in a republic, people form a government to protect their rights.

Purpose of Government

To protect natural (inalienable) rights, which are the basic rights that are entitled to all human beings.

Natural (Inalienable) Rights

Basic rights entitled to all human beings: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.