Final answer:
Unanimous approval of the Declaration of Independence was sought to present a united front, prevent any colony from facing British retribution alone, and establish the legitimacy of the American colonies' collective will for independence. Calhoun's concurrent majority sought to prevent the tyranny of the majority in a democracy. Commoners trained as soldiers to defend their belief in liberty and self-determination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The delegates of the American colonies believed unanimously approving the Declaration of Independence was crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it presented a united front against British rule, showing that the colonies stood together in their commitment to independence and were not divided internally. This unity was essential for gaining support both domestically and internationally. Secondly, a unanimous declaration ensured that no single colony would be left to face retribution from Britain alone. Lastly, it legitimized the rebellion by demonstrating that the decision to separate was not taken by a faction but was the collective will of the American people.
With regards to John C. Calhoun's 'Disquisition on Government', Calhoun proposed the idea of a concurrent majority to prevent the tyranny of the majority in a democratic system. This would ensure that the interests of all sections, or minority groups within the country, were considered and protected, thus providing a check against the absolute dominion of the majority.
Simple farmers and shopkeepers trained as soldiers and risked their lives at events like Lexington and Concord based on a profound sense of duty to their community and a belief in the principles of liberty and self-determination. In these conflicts, individuals from all walks of life were willing to stand up against what they perceived to be oppressive rule and fight for a chance at self-governance.