According to the preamble to the Declaration of Independence, what ceases to exist based upon a unanimous decision?

Jefferson chose to begin the Declaration with the words, “The unanimous

Declaration of the thirteen united States of America.” Do you feel this was

necessary? Why or why not? Could the 13 colonies have declared independence

if they were not unanimous? Why or why not?

Answers will vary. Most students might note that it was necessary for Jefferson to prove

that the Continental Congress presented a united front to the world in order to prove that

independence was the true goal of the colonies. Others may state that since each state

provided signers to the document, it was obvious that all thirteen colonies accepted it.

As to the question of whether the 13 colonies could have declared independence if they

weren’t unanimous, answers will vary. Most students might state that independence

would be difficult without the support of all thirteen colonies, but some might say

independence without consensus was still possible. For instance, colonies that objected

could be absorbed into Canada or find a way to peacefully co-exist with those that

seceded.

2. How does Jefferson explain the reason for a formal declaration of independence?

Why do you think it was necessary for Jefferson to state the “causes which impel

them to the separation”?

Answers will vary. However, some students may note that other nations, such as France

and the Netherlands, also had colonial interests in North America and may have been

concerned if British colonists declared independence for groundless reasons. Also,

because of Jefferson’s background as a lawyer, it might have also been true that he was

building his case for independence before the world community, similar to what he might

do if he were pleading a case before a jury.

Explanation:

describe a little more.