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"What realization led to Franklin's dissatisfaction with British rule?

a) Economic exploitation and taxation without representation
b) Unjust treatment of colonial merchants
c) Lack of religious freedom
d) Unfair trade practices and restrictions on colonial industries"

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Benjamin Franklin's dissatisfaction with British rule stemmed from economic exploitation and taxation without representation, as well as restrictions on colonial trade and expansion. These issues were rooted in British legislative actions following the French and Indian War and were opposed by the colonists based on their understanding of English constitutional rights.

Step-by-step explanation:

The realization that led to Franklin's dissatisfaction with British rule was primarily the economic exploitation and taxation without representation. This discontent arose from a series of enactments by the British Parliament after the French and Indian War, aimed at raising revenues to cover the costs of maintaining and protecting the colonies. The American colonists felt they should not be taxed without having representatives in the British Parliament, a concept they supported by citing their rights under the English Bill of Rights of 1689.

The British government, conversely, believed in 'virtual' representation, which the colonists rejected as unsuitable for their circumstances. Additionally, the Crown's decision to control colonial expansion and trade further agitated the Americans, leading them to increasingly regard British rule as contrary to their interests, culminating in rebellion and the eventual declaration of independence.

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