Declaration of Independence Point of View and Image Analysis

Students will read 9 quotes from different points of view as to whether or not the colonies should declare independence from Great Britain and answer 20 questions. They will then analyze 3 images according to 4 prompts. The answers are included where appropriate and this would be great for a sub! The quotes range from 1763-1779 and the historical spelling and grammar has been preserved for authenticity.

Sample questions include:
—Why do you think Paine issued such a challenge? Why weren’t all the colonists on the same page about fighting for independence?

—Why were the actions Patriots were attempting to take considered a “duty to mankind?” Why did what was happening in the colonies mean anything, or matter, to people in other parts of the world?
—Do you think Inglis' statement, reminding colonists that all parties involved were Britons, would have been strong enough to change anyone’s mind, or stance on the issue at hand?
— Frederick Mackenzie’s quote can be interpreted as if he were a Loyalist and as if he were a Patriot. Add a sentence to his quote, one to make it clear that he was a Loyalist, and one to make it clear that he was a Patriot.
—What point of view does Lee take and cite the evidence from the text that supports your answer.
—Which quote best supports the “yes independence” point of view and why?
—Which quote best supports the “no independence” point of view and why?

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