Question

question 2
source 2: excerpt from the declaration of independence (1776)
in 1776, thomas jefferson wrote the declaration of independence, listing reasons why the colonies were breaking away
from britain.
read this excerpt that explains the idea that government power comes from the people:
\we hold these truths to be self - evident, that all men are created equal... that to secure these rights, governments are
instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.\
declaration of independence
? why would this idea about the source of government power be considered revolutionary at the time, and how does it
contrast with british rule?
respond in 2 - 3 complete sentences.

Explanation:

The Declaration of Independence's idea that government power comes from the people (consent of the governed) was revolutionary. British rule was based on monarchy (rule by a king, with power often seen as divinely - given or through hereditary right). Under British rule, the colonists had little say in governance (e.g., no representation in Parliament for many colonial matters). The Declaration's concept gave power to the people, allowing them to form governments to secure their rights (like life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness), which was a stark contrast to the autocratic nature of British rule where the king made decisions affecting the colonists without their consent.

Answer:

The Declaration of Independence's idea of government power from the consent of the governed was revolutionary. British rule was autocratic (monarchy - based, king - centered). The Declaration gave power to the people for rights - securing, contrasting with British lack of colonial consent in governance.