AP Government: The Declaration of Independence

Overview:

• Three Main Sections:
  • Preamble
  • List of Grievances Against King George III
  • Resolution for Independence
• Focus: The influence of Enlightenment ideals on the Preamble.

Preamble Details:

• Main Author: Thomas Jefferson

Justification for Independence:

• Jefferson argues the necessity for American colonists to dissolve political ties with Britain.
• Emphasizes the need to explain the causes for separation.

Audience and Purpose:

• Document was widely published, not just sent to King George III.
• Purposes:
  1. Rally domestic support for the Revolution.
  2. Secure foreign allies for support against Britain.

Enlightenment Thought in the Declaration:

• Natural Rights Theory:
  • "All men are created equal."
  • Individuals are endowed with unalienable rights: life, liberty, pursuit of happiness.
  • Rights originate from the Creator, not the government.
  • Governments are established to protect these natural rights.

Philosophical Influences:

• John Locke:
  • Key source for the theory of natural rights.
• Jean-Jacques Rousseau:
  • Ideas of popular sovereignty and social contract.

Key Concepts:

• Natural Rights:
  • Inherent rights from birth as a human being.
• Government's Role:
  • Protect these rights.
  • Derives power from the consent of the governed.
• Popular Sovereignty:
  • Power resides in the people.

The Social Contract:

• People willingly transfer some power to the government to protect their rights.
• If the government fails, it's the people's right to:
  • Alter or abolish it.
  • Establish a new government to ensure their safety and happiness.

Conclusion:

• When a government acts tyrannically, it is the right of the people to replace it.
• This justified the American colonists' actions post-Declaration.

Further Learning:

• Additional Resources:
  • Playlist on foundational documents.
  • Review packets for exam preparation.