The Declaration of Independence Quiz

Questions and Answers

Which part of the Declaration of Independence acts as an implied plan of action, in that it lists laws and practices to be changed?

the body

What best describes the main action called for by the Declaration of Independence?

to give the United States the power of self-government

Which quotation from the preamble to the Declaration of Independence refers to natural rights?

[T]hey are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

What was the intention of the Declaration of Independence regarding British rule?

the right to self-govern Signup and view all the answers

How do the protestors use the Declaration of Independence to express their opinion about climate change?

The signs reference the role of the government in protecting the natural rights of the people. Signup and view all the answers

Why was the grievance about cutting off trade with all parts of the world included in the Declaration?

Trade focused on generating income for the Crown only. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle does the preamble to the Declaration of Independence outline regarding the new government?

a government based on a social contract Signup and view all the answers

What had the greatest influence in prompting the Second Continental Congress to declare independence?

increased open public support for independence Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the conflict between British troops and a colonial militia in Massachusetts?

Thomas Paine published Common Sense. Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the purpose of the Second Continental Congress?

It was the group of leaders who worked to create the Declaration of Independence. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Declaration of Independence Overview

The body of the Declaration acts as an implied plan, outlining necessary changes to laws and practices.
The main action called for is the establishment of self-government for the United States.

Influence of Enlightenment Ideas

John Locke, a key Enlightenment philosopher, emphasized natural rights entitled to all individuals.
The preamble states that all people are "endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights," including Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

Rights and Self-Governance

The Declaration aimed to terminate British rule and grant citizens the right to self-govern.
It references the government's responsibility in safeguarding the natural rights of people, as seen in modern protests for climate justice.

Grievances Against British Rule

A grievance in the Declaration highlights restrictions on trade, which primarily benefited the British Crown.
This grievance illustrates the colonies' economic struggles under British restrictions.

Principles of New Government

The preamble outlines foundational principles for the new government, specifically a social contract as a guiding philosophy.
The social contract basis reinforces the idea that government derives its power from the consent of the governed.

Historical Context

Growing public support for independence played a crucial role in leading the Second Continental Congress to declare independence.
Tensions escalated, resulting in conflicts such as skirmishes between British troops and colonial militias, prompting influential writings like Thomas Paine's "Common Sense."

Role of the Second Continental Congress

The Second Continental Congress served as the assemblage of leaders tasked with drafting and creating the Declaration of Independence.

Description

Test your knowledge about the Declaration of Independence with these flashcards. Learn about its structure, key actions, and the philosophical influences that shaped this pivotal document in American history. Perfect for students and history enthusiasts alike.