The words you quoted likely had a significant impact on American colonists and can be analyzed through several lenses to determine their potential effects:
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Increased Acts of Civil Disobedience: The phrase "a government of our own is our natural right" suggests a strong belief in self-determination. This idea likely reinforced the legitimacy of colonial resistance and civil disobedience against what they perceived as oppressive British rule. It would have encouraged colonists to take action, seeing it as their right to establish and govern themselves.
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Encouragement to Frame a Constitution: The call for forming a constitution "in a cool deliberate manner" indicates a desire for structured governance rather than chaotic rebellion. This could have inspired colonial leaders to come together to formally articulate their principles and create a governing document, such as the Articles of Confederation or later the U.S. Constitution during the Continental Congress.
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Inspiration for Fear Among Loyalists: The assertion of natural rights and the call for self-governance would likely have heightened tensions between patriots and loyalists. Loyalists might have seen these ideas as a threat to order and stability, prompting fear of revolt, and increasing efforts to maintain allegiance to Britain.
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Strengthening the Desire for Separation: Ultimately, these words would have reinforced the colonists' desire to separate from Britain. By emphasizing their natural rights, it would solidify feelings of injustice and discontent towards British authority, galvanizing support for independence and laying the ideological groundwork for the American Revolution.
In summary, these powerful statements about governance and rights most likely strengthened the colonists' resolve to act on their desire for independence, inspired organized efforts to create a constitution, and heightened fears among loyalists about the growing revolutionary sentiment.