Question

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Paragraph 31 of the Declaration of Independence reads:


In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince whoe character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of free people.


This paragraph comes towards the end of the document. Why didn't Jefferson put paragraph 31 upfront, at the beginning? Write 1-4 complete sentences to explain Jefferson's decision.

Answer 1

Jefferson likely chose to place this paragraph towards the end of the document for emphasis and to build up to a powerful conclusion.
By building up the argument throughout the document, Jefferson was able to make the case for independence stronger and more convincing.
The paragraph itself is a powerful statement and its placement at the end highlights the severity of the situation and the urgency of the need for change.
By having the paragraph towards the end, it also serves as a summary of the previous arguments and a final call to action for the reader