Exploring the Declaration of Independence at Colonial Williamsburg

The transcript is a reading of the Declaration of Independence, outlining the philosophical foundations for independence, listing grievances against King George III, and declaring the United States as free and independent states. It emphasizes the right to alter or abolish oppressive governments and the efforts made to reconcile with Britain before declaring independence.

What does the Declaration of Independence state about the equality of men?

• All men are created equal.

• Some men are superior to others.

• Equality is not mentioned.

• Only certain men are created equal.

According to the Declaration, what is the purpose of government?

• To control the people.

• To serve the king.

• To collect taxes.

• To protect unalienable rights.

Which of the following is NOT listed as a grievance against King George III?

• Providing fair trials.

• Refusing to pass necessary laws.

• Dissolving representative houses.

• Imposing taxes without consent.

What did the colonies do in response to the repeated injuries by the king?

• They accepted the injuries.

• They petitioned for redress.

• They ignored the injuries.

• They increased taxes.

What was the colonies' stance towards their British brethren?

• They sought to maintain friendly relations.

• They sought to rejoin them.

• They declared them enemies in war and peace.

• They ignored them completely.

What did the colonies do to address their grievances before declaring independence?

• They waged war immediately.

• They petitioned humbly for redress.

• They ignored the issues.

• They increased taxes.

What did the colonies declare about their political connection with Great Britain?

• It should be totally dissolved.

• It should be maintained.

• It should be reformed.

• It should be strengthened.

What powers do the independent states claim in the Declaration?

• To wage war, conclude peace, and establish commerce.

• To follow British laws.

• To remain under British rule.

• To avoid international relations.

What did the signatories pledge to each other in support of the Declaration?

• Their wealth and power.

• Their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor.

• Their lands and titles.

• Their allegiance to the king.

What is the significance of the Declaration's conclusion?

• It pledges mutual support among the signatories.

• It requests more British troops.

• It reaffirms loyalty to the king.

• It calls for more negotiations.