What was a major political idea that helped justify the authors’ declaration of independence?

Answer 1

A major political idea that helped justify the authors' declaration of independence was the concept of "natural rights," as articulated by Enlightenment philosophers such as John Locke. This idea posits that individuals are endowed with inherent rights to life, liberty, and property, and that governments are established to protect these rights. If a government fails to protect these rights or becomes tyrannical, the people have the right to alter or abolish it and establish a new government.

In the context of the Declaration of Independence, the American colonists articulated grievances against British rule, claiming that King George III had violated their natural rights. This philosophical foundation provided a moral justification for their decision to break away and establish a separate nation, as they believed they were asserting their rights to self-governance and freedom from oppression.