Influences on the Declaration of Independence Philosopher John Locke • an English philosopher from the Enlightenment (1689) • he wrote about the “social contract” that people had with their government. • the purpose of government is to protect people‟s “natural rights” of life, liberty and ownership of property. Influences on the Declaration of Independence Philosopher John Locke • if the government fails to protect these rights, then, the government should be CHANGED! • These thoughts greatly influenced Jefferson in writing the Declaration of Independence Influences on the Declaration of Independence The Virginia Declaration of Rights a document drafted (1776) to proclaim the inherent rights of men including the right to rebel against "inadequate" government. Influences on the Declaration of Independence Pamphlet „Common Sense‟ • written by Tom Paine in 1776 •He argued for two main points: - independence from England - the creation of a democratic republic. Common Sense greatly influenced opinion throughout the colonies in favor of independence The Declaration of Independence • Written by Thomas Jefferson • It is the “Birth Certificate of the United States” • Document listed rights and grievances against King George III The Declaration of Independence • John Hancock first to sign in large print • Anyone who signed it and was caught would be hanged • “We must all now hang together, or most assuredly we will all hang separately." Hancock —Benjamin Franklin Key Quotes in the Declaration • “We hold these truths to be self evident: that all men are created equal” • “That they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights” • “That among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” Independence Diary “There were bonfires, ringing bells, with other great demonstrations of joy upon the unanimity and agreement of the Declaration.” —Christopher Marshall (1776) What Happened to those who Signed? • Five were captured by the British, though eventually released • Approximately 12 had their homes ransacked and burned • One lost his son in the Continental Army • Several suffered wounds in various battles.