Question

Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence.

Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

What is the author’s purpose in this excerpt?

A.to inform readers about different systems of government
B.to inform readers about recent governmental reforms
C.to persuade readers of the need for governmental change
D.to persuade readers to petition their local governments

Answer 1

its actually to persuade readers of the need for governmental change

Answer 2

The author's purpose in the excerpt is to persuade the readers of the need for governmental change, arguing the right of the people to alter or abolish a government that becomes destructive to the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The correct answer is option C.

The author's purpose in the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence is C. to persuade readers of the need for governmental change. This significant document, drafted by Thomas Jefferson, outlines the philosophical foundation and the inherent rights that justify the American colonies' decision to declare independence from Great Britain.

It argues that governments are instituted to protect the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and derives their powers from the consent of the governed. The excerpt specifically states that should a government become destructive toward these ends, it is not only the right but also the duty of the people to alter or abolish it and to establish a new government that will ensure their safety and happiness.

This call to action is based on the experiences of the colonies under British rule, characterized by repeated abuses and usurpations, as detailed in the document, which amounted to tyranny over the states.