20. In the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson made the case for independence from Great Britain by applying ideas from the Enlightenment fell which ideas, in the Declaration of independence were inspired by the Enlightenment and explain what those ideas meant to Jefferson
(4 points)
To find the answer to this question, we need to examine the ideas and principles put forth in the Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson. First, let's understand what the Enlightenment was. The Enlightenment was an intellectual and philosophical movement that took place in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. It emphasized reason, science, and individual rights, challenging the authority of governments and religious institutions.
In the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson drew heavily from Enlightenment ideas to justify the American colonies' desire for independence from Great Britain. Here are a few key Enlightenment ideas that influenced Jefferson's thinking:
1. Natural Rights: Jefferson stated that "all men are created equal" and that they are endowed with "certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness." These ideas were influenced by Enlightenment philosophers like John Locke, who argued that individuals have inherent rights to life, liberty, and property that no government or authority can take away.
2. Social Contract: Jefferson's declaration reflects the idea of a social contract, an agreement between the government and the people it governs. He wrote that governments derive their just powers from "the consent of the governed." This idea, championed by Enlightenment thinker Jean-Jacques Rousseau, asserts that governments exist to protect the natural rights of individuals and should be based on the consent and will of the people.
3. Limited Government: Jefferson's declaration criticizes King George III for his abuse of power, citing "repeated injuries and usurpations." This criticism aligns with Enlightenment ideals of limited government. Enlightenment thinkers like Montesquieu argued for the separation of powers and checks and balances within a government to prevent the abuse of power.
4. Popular Sovereignty: Jefferson's declaration emphasizes the idea of popular sovereignty, which suggests that ultimate political authority rests with the people. This concept was influenced by Enlightenment philosophers like Rousseau, who believed that people should have the power to govern themselves and participate in decision-making processes.
These Enlightenment ideas meant a great deal to Jefferson, as they provided the philosophical foundation for justifying the colonies' right to independence. By appealing to the principles of natural rights, social contract, limited government, and popular sovereignty, Jefferson aimed to rally support for the American cause and make a persuasive case for breaking away from British rule.