Final answer:
Colonists were persuaded towards independence by actions of the British government that violated their perceived rights, Enlightenment philosophies advocating for natural rights, and Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' which argued against British rule on practical and ideological grounds, leading to the Declaration of Independence and the creation of a new nation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors Influencing American Independence
The quest for American independence was a multifaceted process influenced by various political and ideological developments. Key among these was the widespread frustration with actions by the British government, which included imposing taxes without representation and limiting trade. These grievances fueled the belief that independence was a sensible step towards a brighter future for the American colonies.
Moreover, the Enlightenment philosophy played a crucial role in shaping the colonists' views on self-governance and liberty. Thinkers like John Locke articulated ideas about natural rights and government's duty to the people, which resonated with the American context of perceived British oppression. These ideas justified the revolution and the ending of British rule from a moral standpoint, igniting the call to form an independent nation.
Thomas Paine's pamphlet Common Sense also made a significant impact by articulating the impracticality and illogical nature of remaining under British rule. Paine’s arguments, grounded in 'simple facts, plain arguments, and common sense,' resonated with the American public. Combined with the desire for a government that truly represented the people's interests, these intellectual and political currents paved the way for the Declaration of Independence and the birth of a new nation.