Declaration of Independence
What was the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence?
To declare the colonies' independence from British rule.
What does the Preamble of the Declaration of Independence explain?
It explains the reasons for declaring independence.
What was a significant cause of the Seven Years' War?
Conflicts over land and resources between Britain and France.
What was the Stamp Act?
A tax on printed materials in the colonies.
Who is known as the "Father of the Declaration of Independence"?
Thomas Jefferson.
Who was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson
What is meant by the phrase "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" in the Preamble?
It defines fundamental human rights that the government must protect.
In which years did the Seven Years' War take place?
1756 to 1763
What act required colonists to house British soldiers?
The Quartering Act.
Which future president was also a key figure in the Declaration's creation?
John Adams.
How did the Declaration of Independence influence other countries?
It inspired other nations to fight for their own independence.
What is the Preamble?
The introduction to the Declaration of Independence that explains its purpose.
Who were the main opposing countries in the war?
Britain and France.
How did the Townshend Acts affect colonial trade?
They imposed taxes on imported goods, leading to boycotts.
Which key figure famously wrote a pamphlet titled "Common Sense" advocating for independence?
Thomas Paine
What year was the Declaration of Independence adopted?
1776
What do the words "self-evident truths" mean?
They are truths that are obvious and do not need proof.
How did the Seven Years' War contribute to colonial dissatisfaction?
It led to increased taxes and British control over the colonies.
What was the Boston Tea Party a protest against?
The Tea Act and British taxation without representation.
Who was the first person and largest signature to sign the Declaration of Independence?
John Hancock
Name three rights that the Declaration states are unalienable.
Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
What are the three rights mentioned in the Preamble?
Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
What treaty ended the Seven Years' War?
The Treaty of Paris (1763)
Which act was passed to help pay off war debt from the Seven Years' War?
The Sugar Act
Who was the key editor of the DOI?
Ben Franklin