Question

What argument does Thomas Jefferson make in this excerpt from the Declaration of Independence? We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, 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. A. The American colonists desire a more peaceful alliance with Great Britain but their British counterparts do not. B. The American colonists have a right to seek freedom from Great Britain due to the continued oppression of their basic rights. C. The American colonies could form a better government than the one established by Great Britain to govern them. D. The king of Britain and the members of British Parliament have little interest in the welfare of the colonies. E. The American colonies should have sufficient representation in British Parliament if America and Great Britain are to coexist peacefully.

Answer 1

In this excerpt from the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson argues that the American colonists have the right to seek freedom from Great Britain due to the continued oppression of their basic rights. He asserts that all men are created equal and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, such as Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

Jefferson further argues that governments are established among men to secure these rights and derive their powers from the consent of the governed. However, if a government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it and establish a new government that better serves their safety and happiness.

This excerpt reflects the colonists' dissatisfaction with the British government and their belief that their rights were being violated. Jefferson asserts that the colonists have the right to form a new government that would better protect their basic rights and ensure their well-being.

Therefore, the correct answer is B. The American colonists have a right to seek freedom from Great Britain due to the continued oppression of their basic rights.