Read the Declaration of Independence from the National Archives, complete the activity below, and then submit. 1. In the first paragraph of the declaration, Jefferson states the reason for the writing of this document. What reason does he give? 2. Where does a government acquire its power, according to the declaration? 3. What are the “unalienable rights” that Jefferson states? 4. Who or what does Jefferson hold accountable for most of the problems the colonies are suffering through? 5. What tone does the final statement of the Declaration of Independence display? Is this tone effective in conveying the importance of this document? Why or why not? 6. Jefferson speaks of “the laws of nature and of Nature’s God.” What does he mean by this? Give an example of a law that might be contrary to “the laws of nature.” 7. Find and write the dictionary meaning for the word “self-evident.” Jefferson mentions four truths, which he says are “self-evident.” Name these and argue for or against the notion that they are indeed “self-evident.” 8. Find and write the meaning to the phrase “absolute despotism.” Jefferson says it is the “right and duty” of mankind to fight this “absolute despotism.” Why? 9. Compare the tone or attitude expressed towards the British people with that towards King George III. List and explain those words that aid you to understand this tone. 10. Find, list and explain an example of parallel structure in the Declaration of Independence. 11. Most often, well-chosen words and a logical, clear style help a writer to succeed at persuasion. But, if you are dealing with a mature audience, words alone may not always make your case. Evidence is required to prove your case. Jefferson uses concrete details to prove his argument against King George. If you were reading this as an American colonist, which of these details or reasons would be the most persuasive to you? 12. While listing the reasons, Jefferson changes the opening word in his paragraphs from “He” to “For.” What is the purpose of this shift? Read the Declaration of Independence from the National Archives, complete the activity below, and then submit. 1. In the first paragraph of the declaration, Jefferson states the reason for the writing of this document. What reason does he give? 2. Where does a government acquire its power, according to the declaration? 3. What are the “unalienable rights” that Jefferson states? 4. Who or what does Jefferson hold accountable for most of the problems the colonies are suffering through? 5. What tone does the final statement of the Declaration of Independence display? Is this tone effective in conveying the importance of this document? Why or why not? 6. Jefferson speaks of “the laws of nature and of Nature’s God.” What does he mean by this? Give an example of a law that might be contrary to “the laws of nature.” 7. Find and write the dictionary meaning for the word “self-evident.” Jefferson mentions four truths, which he says are “self-evident.” Name these and argue for or against the notion that they are indeed “self-evident.” 8. Find and write the meaning to the phrase “absolute despotism.” Jefferson says it is the “right and duty” of mankind to fight this “absolute despotism.” Why? 9. Compare the tone or attitude expressed towards the British people with that towards King George III. List and explain those words that aid you to understand this tone. 10. Find, list and explain an example of parallel structure in the Declaration of Independence. 11. Most often, well-chosen words and a logical, clear style help a writer to succeed at persuasion. But, if you are dealing with a mature audience, words alone may not always make your case. Evidence is required to prove your case. Jefferson uses concrete details to prove his argument against King George. If you were reading this as an American colonist, which of these details or reasons would be the most persuasive to you? 12. While listing the reasons, Jefferson changes the opening word in his paragraphs from “He” to “For.” What is the purpose of this shift?