Final answer:
The signing of the Declaration of Independence was a significant risk because it involved fear of British retaliation, uncertainty of public support, and severe legal consequences like treason. Loyalists faced harsh punishments, and many Native American tribes sided with the British to protect their lands.
Step-by-step explanation:
Signing the Declaration of Independence was such a big risk to the signers because D) All of the above. This encompassed fears of retaliation from Britain, uncertainty about public support, and facing potential legal consequences. To the British government in London, the Declaration was deemed illegal and treasonous. Indeed, if King George III had captured the signers, they would have faced execution. Moreover, during the American Revolution, loyalists faced severe consequences, such as loss of property or worse, for remaining loyal to the British Crown since the war and the pursuit of independence tolerated no dissent. In addition, most Indian tribes and nations supported the British as they feared an American victory would lead to further land loss through expansion.