Question

Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States . .

How does Jefferson use ethos as a rhetorical appeal?

by establishing the source of the representatives’ authority
by describing the elected leaders’ levels of education
by explaining the upcoming election of representatives
by offering a prayer for the future of the colonies

Answer 1

by establishing the source of the representatives’ authority

Jefferson appeals to ethos by stressing that the declaration is made "in the Name, and by the Authority of the good People of these Colonies" and by appealing to a higher moral judge, thereby asserting the legitimacy and moral credibility of the representatives.