Final answer:
The Declaration of Independence included grievances against the British Crown primarily to justify the colonies' actions to the international community, seeking recognition and support for their quest for independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The writers of the Declaration of Independence listed grievances to justify their actions to the international community. This list was essential because it demonstrated that the decision to declare independence was not made lightly and was the result of a long series of abuses by the British Crown. Highlighting these grievances served multiple purposes: it helped to gain support from other nations potentially sympathetic to the American cause, reinforced the rationale for independence to the public, and provided a historical record of perceived injustices. Additionally, enumerating these grievances validated the call for independence by showing the colonies had endured repeated injuries and usurpations, making it necessary for them to sever political ties and assert their own governance based on the consent of the governed.
When considering the question at hand, the answer would be (a) To justify their actions to the international community. While garnering public support and providing a historical record were also outcomes of listing the grievances, the primary goal was to present a sound argument in the sphere of international politics, thereby seeking acknowledgment and support from foreign powers and to articulate the reasons compelling the colonies to seek independence.