The Declaration of Independence

by Thomas Jefferson Think Critically pg. 279 Mel-Con Writing Strategy 2. M: The reason for the colonists breaking away from British rule that is most striking is the king’s response to the colonists’ complaints.

E: For example, the king went as far as to abdicate government in the colonies, “declaring us out of his protection,” and “excited domestic insurrection” by encouraging slaves to rebel against their masters.

L: Naturally, the colonies felt their complaints fell on deaf ears.

Con: In brief, the king’s response to their numerous complaints was at best shamelessly ignorant.

The Declaration of Independence

by Thomas Jefferson Think Critically pg. 279 Mel-Con Writing Strategy 3. M: The fact that all of the colonists’ complaints refer to the king’s offenses emphasize the difference between the British people and him.

E: Evidently, this is made clear when Jefferson states “The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries an usurpations,” directly pointing the finger at the king.

L: Without question, this rhetoric holds the king, not the inhabitants of Britain, responsible.

Con: In conclusion, Jefferson directs his criticisms against the king in hopes of winning the support of the British people.

The Declaration of Independence

by Thomas Jefferson Think Critically pg. 279 Mel-Con Writing Strategy 4: M:

The Declaration of Independence,

rational, and reasonable language, is evidently a product of the Age of Reason.

E: For example, Jefferson explains before issuing his complaints his reason for doing so, explaining that out of “respect for mankind” one should not rebel for “light or transient causes.” with its logical, L: The fact that Jefferson structures his argument in this fashion lends his piece to the Age of Reason.

Con: Overall, by using this logic while writing the Declaration, Jefferson emphasizes the importance and urgency of their rebellion.

The Declaration of Independence

by Thomas Jefferson Think Critically pg. 279 Mel-Con Writing Strategy 6.

M: The rhetoric used within

The Declaration of Independence,

though powerful, is hypocritical at times.

E: Essentially, Jefferson feels that “all men are created equal” though in the same breath, is angered that King George III has “excited domestic Insurrection amongst” the colonists, an example of the double standard Jefferson holds.

L: Looking upon this rhetoric today, it is clear that his argument lends itself to hypocrisy at times.

Con: Conclusively, if Jefferson was writing his Declaration today, the complaints made would be different on some levels.