A government of our own is our natural right: And when a man seriously reflects on the precariousness of human affairs, he will become convinced, that it is infinitely wiser and safer, to form a constitution of our own in a cool deliberate manner, while we have it in our power, than to trust such an interesting event to time and chance.—Thomas Paine, Common Sense

Use the excerpt to answer the question.
1.
What effect do you think these words had on the American colonists?

• They most likely inspired fear in the Loyalists of the Patriots.
• They most likely strengthened the colonists’ desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain.
• They most likely encouraged the Framers to meet and write the U.S. Constitution at the Continental Congress.
• They most likely increased colonial acts of civil disobedience by confirming their validity

They most likely strengthened the colonists' desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain. After all, who wouldn't want their own government when they can't trust time and chance? It's like going to a casino with your life savings and expecting to come out as the next Bill Gates... not very wise.

Based on the excerpt, it can be inferred that these words most likely strengthened the colonists' desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain. Thomas Paine's argument emphasizes the importance of forming their own government in a deliberate manner, rather than leaving such a significant event to chance. This idea of self-governance would have resonated with the colonists who were seeking independence from British rule.

The words in the excerpt most likely strengthened the colonists' desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain.