Those who oppose independence are condemning the nation to

Question

freedom.

eternal tyranny.

a vacant seat of government.
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... Ye that oppose independence now, ye know not what ye do; ye are opening a door to eternal tyranny, by keeping vacant the seat of government. There are thousands, and tens of thousands, who would think it glorious to expel from the continent, that barbarous and hellish power...

Answer 1

The passage emphasizes the dangers of opposing independence, framing such opposition as a pathway to "eternal tyranny." The author argues that by rejecting the idea of self-governance and independence, individuals are ultimately leaving their future and political fate in the hands of unpredictable circumstances—essentially allowing for the potential rise of oppressive rule.

The phrase "vacant seat of government" symbolizes the absence of a stable and autonomous governmental authority, which can lead to chaos and tyranny. The author passionately advocates for the establishment of a constitution that reflects the collective will and rights of the people, warning that it is more prudent to take control of their destiny rather than allowing it to be determined by unpredictable forces or external powers.

In this context, the passage serves as a rallying cry for independence, urging people to recognize the importance of self-governance and foreseeing the dire consequences of inaction or complacency in the face of tyranny.