Use the excerpt to answer the question.
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
What effect do you think these words had on the American colonists?
(1 point)
Responses
These words likely had the effect of inspiring and empowering the American colonists. They would have seen Paine's argument as logical and compelling, and it would have reinforced their desire for self-governance and independence from Britain. The words may have also helped to galvanize the colonists into taking action and fighting for their rights.
These words likely had a significant effect on the American colonists as they were written during a time when colonists were debating whether or not to break away from British rule. Thomas Paine's argument for forming their own government and constitution would have resonated with many colonists who were growing increasingly discontent with British rule and were considering independence. His words may have helped to rally support for the idea of creating a new government and spurred many colonists to take action in the pursuit of independence.
To answer the question, we need to analyze the excerpt and consider its possible impact on the American colonists.
The excerpt from Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" argues for the necessity of the American colonists establishing their own government. Paine asserts that having their own government is a natural right, and he emphasizes the precariousness of human affairs, suggesting that leaving the fate of their governance to time and chance is unwise and unsafe.
Given this perspective, it can be inferred that these words likely had a significant effect on the American colonists. Paine's reasoning would have resonated with many colonists who were becoming increasingly frustrated with British rule. The notion of having their own government, formed in a deliberate manner, would have provided a sense of empowerment and agency for those seeking independence.
Paine's words likely played a role in galvanizing support among the American colonists for the revolutionary cause. They may have intensified their desire for self-governance and further justified their quest for independence from British rule.
Overall, the impact of Paine's words would have been to bolster the argument for independence among the American colonists and reinforce their determination to establish their own government.