Question

Part C

Read these excerpts:
Declaration of Independence
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered
only by repeated injury... We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to
the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies,
solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved
from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be
totally dissolved;
The Preamble to the US Constitution
We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the
common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish
this Constitution for the United States of America.
Consider the purpose of these two excerpts, and then compare their structure and tone. How do these elements differ in the two excerpts? Cite
evidence from the text to support your response.

Answer 1

The primary objective of the Declaration of Independence is to formally recognise Great Britain's retaliation against the United States and her failure to react to pleas as justifications for this decision. By addressing a higher power, it argues for the justice of their argument in an emphatic and forceful manner.

The Preamble to the US Constitution, in contrast, sets forth the aims and purposes of the new government, forming a more perfect union, justice, defence, and advancing the common good. Its more pragmatic and cooperative tone conveys the willingness to cooperate for a common goal. The Preamble has a more calm and even tone than the Declaration of Independence, which is more passionate and strong in its vocabulary.