Question

Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence.

Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

What is the author’s purpose in this excerpt?

to inform readers about different systems of government
to inform readers about recent governmental reforms
to persuade readers of the need for governmental change
to persuade readers to petition their local governments

Answer 1

to persuade readers of the need for governmental change

The passage argues that people have the right to alter or abolish government when it becomes destructive and to form a new one to secure safety and happiness, which is a persuasive appeal for change.