Question

Write a short letter to your newspaper editor, explaining why you support independence from Great Britain as a young American colonist in the early 1770s.

Answer 1

Young American colonists in the early 1770s supported independence from Great Britain due to taxation without representation, violations of natural rights, and inspiration from Enlightenment ideals.

Step-by-step explanation:

As a young American colonist in the early 1770s, I support independence from Great Britain for several reasons.

1. Taxation without representation: The British government imposed various taxes on the colonies without giving them any say in the matter. This violated the principle of 'no taxation without representation' and undermined the colonists' rights as British subjects.
2. Violation of natural rights: The British King, George III, infringed upon the colonists' natural rights, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and property rights. The colonists believed that they should govern themselves and have the right to determine their own laws.
3. Inspired by Enlightenment ideals: The Enlightenment ideas of sovereignty and natural rights, popularized by philosophers like John Locke, influenced many American colonists. They believed in the inherent right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and saw independence as the only way to secure these rights.

Overall, the desire for self-governance, protection of rights, and opposition to British policies drove many young American colonists to support independence from Great Britain in the early 1770s.