So, the founding fathers did their reading…and they stole some pretty fine ideas from some brilliant philosophers. This and a little bit of maneuvering and we were all on our way to independence!

Directions: Just like the founding fathers, you will be reading excerpts from some of the most influential philosophers of the time: Thomas Paine and John Locke. As you read through your assigned selection underline all important ideas and circle key words or phrases. Use the information to answer the questions. Be prepared to present.

PART I: The Ideas Behind the Declaration:

A. John Locke’s Second Treatise on Government (Chapter VIII)-published 1689

A. Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” – January 1776

B. Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” – January 1776

Directions: Based on the above readings, describe the ideal government of Locke and Paine.

PART II: The Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776

Document 1:– The Preamble

1) What does the Preamble mean?

2) Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?

3) According to the Preamble: For what reasons should a people get rid of their government?

4) How is the Preamble based on Enlightenment ideals?

Document #2: Part Two of the Declaration – The Grievances (complaints)

1) What examples and events from the Road to Revolution Handouts are the colonists referencing in their grievances?

2) Do these grievances justify revolution?

Document #4 – The Declaration (statement) itself

1) What did the colonial leaders risk by signing this declaration?

2) How do you think King George III and the British Parliament will react when they receive this letter?

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Small group discussion questions:

Do you believe that the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence still exist today?

To what extent have we achieved these ideals?

To what extent have we not achieved these ideals?

Analyze your assigned excerpt to determine the significance of each part, for America, its people, and people around the world.

Section A / Section B
Section C / Section D

John Trumbull’s “Declaration of Independence”

The first painting that Trumbull completed for the Rotunda shows the presentation of the Declaration of Independence in what is now called Independence Hall, Philadelphia. The painting features the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence – John Adams, Roger Sherman, Thomas Jefferson (presenting the document) and Benjamin Franklin – standing before John Hancock, the President of the Continental Congress. The painting includes portraits of 42 of the 56 signers (and 5 other patriots). The artist sketched the individuals and the room from life!

Would you be willing to sign the Declaration of Independence?

Directions: Use the space below to justify your opinion through evidence and analysis. Sign if you dare!

Would you be willing to sign the Declaration of Independence?

Directions: Use the space below to justify your opinion through evidence and analysis. Sign if you dare!

Would you be willing to sign the Declaration of Independence?

Directions: Use the space below to justify your opinion through evidence and analysis. Sign if you dare!