The Declaration of Independence Assessment

Who is credited as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence?

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

• Thomas Jefferson

• John Adams

What is the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

• To establish a new tax system

• To declare war against France

• To announce American independence from Great Britain

• To create a new form of government

In which year was the Declaration of Independence adopted by the Continental Congress?

• 1775

• 1776

• 1777

• 1778

Which section of the Declaration explains the philosophical basis for independence?

• The Preamble

• The Resolution of Independence

• The List of Grievances

• The Conclusion

What basic human rights does the Declaration state are "unalienable"?

• Education, work, and housing

• Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness

• Speech, religion, and assembly

• Voting, property, and freedom

According to the Declaration, where does the government get its power?

• From the King

• From the military

• From the consent of the governed

• From Parliament

How many total delegates signed the Declaration of Independence?

• 56
• 45

• 13

• 50

What does the Declaration list to justify separation from Great Britain?

• Colonial achievements

• Military victories

• Economic policies

• Grievances against King George III

Which of these phrases appears in the Preamble of the Constitution?

• "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness"

• "We hold these truths to be self-evident"

• "We the People of the United States"

• "When in the course of human events"

What term does the Declaration use to describe the relationship between the colonies and Great Britain?

• Political bands

• Colonial ties

• Royal bonds

• Imperial links