1. Declaration of Independence

2. Patriotism is showing or expressing love for your nation
Patriotism is showing or expressing love for your nation. What are two examples of patriotism? Do you consider yourself patriotic? Why or why not?

3. Influences on the Writing
Colonists view themselves as British
entitled to same rights as British citizens
like trial by jury (Magna Carta)
Parliament’s recent laws differentiated between the rights of British citizens and those in America
Colonists refused to pay taxes where they had NO representation

4. Influences on the Writing (continued)
John Locke’s social contract
Present British government was failing to protect the rights and liberties of its citizens in America
Thomas Paine
Common Sense to not only rebel against unfair taxation but to declare independence

5. The Declaration Preamble Declaration of Natural Rights
Introduction of the [any] document
An explanation to the world for their separation
Declaration of Natural Rights
Lists of rights of the citizens
A statement of ideals about government

6. Four Key Ideals: Equality Unalienable rights Consent of the governed
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all me are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. – That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. – That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it.”
Four Key Ideals:
Equality
Unalienable rights
Consent of the governed
Right to alter or abolish government

7. The Declaration (continued)
List of Grievances
Complaints against the British government
King George III is singled out for blame
Resolution of Independence by the United States
“Free and Independent States”
full power to make war, to form alliances, and to trade with other countries

8. Declaration of Independence
Civics Textbook page 60 (follow along)
The reading of the
Declaration of Independence

9. Analysis of the Declaration of Independence
Provide a basic overview of why Jefferson found it necessary for the colonists to achieve their independence from Great Britain
What did the authors hope to achieve when they wrote this document?
What does the document say that colonists have done to try to improve relations with Britain?
Identify the specific “powers” that the Declaration bestowed upon the newly independent nation
Why do you think Jefferson chose to list each of these specific powers?
Can you think of any other essential powers of government that he left out?

10. It’s too late to apologize
EXTRA CREDIT-individual or partner
Write a song/rap/or poem on America’s national identity derived from principles in the Declaration of Independence and what it means to be an American in terms of your rights and responsibilities. It must be at least 2 minutes long. It can be either recorded or performed live in front of the class after the first test (Wednesday, February 6)