The Declaration of Independence s2

Name______

The Declaration of Independence

1. From the perspective of the author, who or what is being referenced when it states in the introduction “with another”?

a. France

b. England

c. the Native American population

d. the southern colonies

2. According to the reading, what does “usurpations” mean?

a. conditions

b. seizures

c. tracks

d. suspicions

3. Who do the colonists claim is usurping their rights?

a. the King

b. the President

c. the Parliament

d. Congress

4. Cite at least one of the grievances listed by the colonists that you believe is frivolous.

(Hint: Direct Quote) Explain why you think this grievance is frivolous.

a. “He has excited domestic insurrection among us, and has endeavored to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers the merciless Indian savages…”

b. The colonists refuse to accept any responsibility and want to blame England for all of their problems. They even suggest that the king is trying to encourage “Indians” to kill American colonists.

5. What did the colonists claim they had attempted to do before reaching the point of declaring independence?

a. They attempted to utilize a democratic system to replace the King

b. They fulfilled their responsibilities as citizens of England by adhering to all tax legislation

c. They attempted to talk with the King numerous times but he refused to listen

d. They had listed the abuses performed against them

6. Which of the following is NOT a right that “all free and independent states” possess.

a. power to levy war

b. issue taxes without consent

c. contract alliances

d. establish commerce

7. What do you think would have happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence had the American colonists lost the Revolutionary War?

a. They would have been replaced as representatives in the next election

b. They would be forced to swear allegiance to the U.S. government

c. They would have been convicted of treason and hung

d. They would have been issued fines that shall not exceed 500 Pounds

8. SUMMARIZE the Declaration of Independence in 4 sentences. Your summary must also include the following terms: King of England, declaration, infringed, break free, American colonists, & rights. (Please circle or underline the terms)

9. Using the reading, explain how the Declaration of Independence was either a justified or unjustified statement. Utilize three supporting facts from the reading that support your position. (your response should be a minimum of 4-5 quality sentences in length)