Question

When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the "unalienable Rights of Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness." It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds."

–"I Have a Dream,"
Martin Luther King Jr.

Which words in the passage support King’s purpose of making listeners believe that they deserve equality? Check all that apply.

“architects”
“magnificent”
“heir”
“promise”
“guaranteed”
“concerned”

Answer 1

"heir"
"promise"
"guaranteed"

Reason: these words stress entitlement and obligation—heir implies inheritance of rights, promise indicates a pledged duty, and guaranteed expresses a legal/assured right—supporting the claim that they deserve equality.