Final answer:
The right to overthrow a government is granted when that government fails to protect the people's fundamental rights, according to the Declaration of Independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Declaration of Independence, the people have the right to overthrow their government when the government fails to protect the fundamental rights of the people. This is detailed in one of the most significant parts of the document that states, "whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government". Such action is justified by a long history of abuses and usurpations that demonstrate a design to impose absolute Despotism, which then necessitates revolution for the security of the people's inalienable rights, namely Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.