Question

select the correct text in the passage. examine the usage of the words bequeath and posterity in this excerpt from thomas paines common sense. then complete the sentences that follow. the authority of great britain over this continent, is a form of government, which sooner or later must have an end. and a serious mind can draw no true pleasure by looking forward, under the painful and positive conviction that what he calls \the present constitution\ is merely temporary. as parents, we can have no joy, knowing that this government is not sufficiently lasting to ensure anything which we may bequeath to posterity. according to paine, the government of great britain will bequeath he also implies that the posterity to the colonists.

Explanation:

The words "bequeath" and "posterity" are used in a historical - political context related to the inheritance of governance and its impact on future generations as discussed by Thomas Paine. "Bequeath" means to pass something on to someone else, especially in a will or by inheritance. Here, it refers to the passing on of the government's legacy. "Posterity" refers to future generations.

Answer:

The usage of "bequeath" means to pass on or hand - down, and "posterity" refers to future generations.