Final answer:
To maintain credibility, the creators of the declaration had to provide evidence of mistreatment and present their arguments with ethos, logos, and pathos. They achieved this by listing grievances, using neutral language, and establishing common ground in familiar principles such as natural rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
To maintain their credibility, the creators of the declaration had to provide evidence of how they had been mistreated. By presenting a list of grievances within the document, the authors were able to show the unjust actions and circumstances that prompted the need for independence. This evidence was crucial in establishing their ethos, which refers to the ethical appeal and credibility of the speaker or writer. Additionally, the authors used rhetorical appeals such as logos, pathos, and ethos throughout the document, but they were not required to include these in every single sentence.
When discussing their position, the authors cited common ground by referencing ideas such as natural rights and the social contract, which many readers could agree upon regardless of their position on independence. By using neutral language and avoiding inflammatory rhetoric, the authors showed respect for the audience and established themselves as rational and reasonable. They also appealed to logos by providing clear and rational arguments supported by evidence and refuting counterclaims. This approach supported the logical structure and fairness of the document, further solidifying their trustworthiness and reliability.