Answer: The colonists believed they needed to explain the theory of government for several reasons during the period leading up to the American Revolution and the drafting of the United States Constitution:
Justification of Independence: The colonists sought to justify their decision to declare independence from British rule. To do so, they needed to articulate a clear and compelling rationale for breaking away from the British Crown. This rationale included principles of natural rights, self-determination, and the idea that governments derive their legitimacy from the consent of the governed.
Rights and Liberties: The colonists were concerned about the protection of their rights and liberties. They believed that the British government, through actions such as taxation without representation and the quartering of troops, was violating their fundamental rights as British subjects. Articulating a theory of government allowed them to underscore the importance of protecting these rights.
Defining the New Nation: As the colonists moved toward independence, they needed to define the principles and values upon which their new nation would be built. Explaining the theory of government helped establish the foundational principles of the United States, such as democracy, republicanism, and the rule of law.
International Support: The colonists sought international support for their cause, especially from nations like France. Articulating a coherent theory of government and independence helped garner sympathy and support from foreign governments and individuals who were sympathetic to their struggle.
Inspiration for Future Generations: The colonists recognized that their struggle for independence and their experiment with a new form of government could serve as an inspiration for future generations. They wanted to leave behind a philosophical and political legacy that would guide and inform the development of American democracy for centuries to come.
Unity among Colonists: Sharing a common understanding of the principles of government and the reasons for independence helped unite the diverse group of American colonists. It provided a common purpose and ideology that transcended regional, cultural, and ethnic differences.
Legitimacy of Governance: To establish a legitimate government after the Declaration of Independence, the colonists needed to explain why their new government had the authority to govern. By grounding their government in a theory of government based on popular sovereignty and consent, they sought to establish its legitimacy in the eyes of both domestic and international audiences.
The articulation of theories of government, as seen in documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Federalist Papers, played a pivotal role in shaping the political philosophy of the United States and laying the foundation for its democratic institutions. These documents continue to be influential in American political thought and are studied and referenced in discussions of governance and citizenship.