1.1 -2 Declaration of independence

Declaration of Independence (DOI)

A document written to explain the American colonies' reasons for breaking away from Britain.

Natural rights

Inherent rights that include 'life, liberty, and property,' as discussed in the DOI.

Preamble

The introductory statement in the DOI that presents the main claim.

Grievances

A list of 27 complaints against King George III outlining his abuses.

Redress

The resolution or remedy proposed to correct injustices mentioned in the DOI.

Organic law

Laws that are foundational to a government, such as the DOI, Constitution, and Bill of Rights.

Non-justiciable

A term that means the DOI cannot be used in court and does not grant or take away powers.

Social contract

A theory that governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed.

Task verbs

Action words used in AP Gov questions, such as identify, define, describe, and explain.

Active voice

A writing style where the subject performs the action (e.g., 'Congress petitioned').