Question

1. in the declaration of independence jefferson says that the king has “refused his assent to laws ... necessary for the public good”. what does he mean by this? (assignment 2, page 15)
2. what argument does jefferson logically express in the declaration of independence? (textbook, pages 18 - 22)
3. what can a reader infer about jefferson’s general attitude toward revolution? (textbook, pages 18 - 22)

Explanation:

1. In the Declaration of Independence, the colonies saw the king's refusal to approve laws beneficial to the public as an abuse of power. It meant he was obstructing the well - being of the colonists for his own interests.
2. Jefferson's argument was that all men are created equal with certain unalienable rights. When a government fails to protect these rights, the people have the right to alter or abolish it. The British government's actions had violated these rights, justifying American independence.
3. From the Declaration, one can infer that Jefferson believed revolution was a justifiable means when a government became tyrannical and failed to protect the rights of its people. It was a last - resort measure to restore natural rights.

Answer:

1. Jefferson meant the king was obstructing laws for the colonists' well - being through his refusal to give assent, an abuse of power.
2. Jefferson argued that when a government fails to protect unalienable rights of people, they have the right to seek independence.
3. Jefferson believed revolution was a justifiable last - resort when a government was tyrannical.