Final answer:
The primary argument supporting American independence from Britain was the right to self-governance, based on the principle that governments should operate with the consent of the governed and respect individual inalienable rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Arguments for American Independence
One compelling argument in support of American independence from Britain was the concept of self-governance and the right to self-determination. As expressed in the Declaration of Independence, the colonists asserted that "These United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States." This assertion was based on the Enlightenment principles that all individuals possess certain inalienable rights and the government is established with the consent of the governed. The accumulation of grievances against King George III—who was seen as having violated these principles by imposing unfair laws, interfering with colonial self-governance, and ignoring the colonists' rights—fueled the conviction that independence was necessary.
The British government's "Law-and-Order Strategy", which included various acts of economic oppression and political control, such as the implementation of taxes without representation and the quartering of soldiers, contributed significantly to the colonies' desire to break free. The consistent disregard for the economic interests of the colonies and the principles of self-government further convinced the colonists that declaring their independence was the only viable path towards preserving their liberties and seeking justice for the impositions placed upon them by British rule.