Declaration of independence
9
Declaration of Independence Jefferson said it was a blast against “chains” of “monkish ignorance and superstition” in which men had willingly bound themselves
description
This unit compares and contrasts the relatively conservative nature of the “American Rebellion” with the more radical path of the “French Revolution,” and explores the long lasting impacts of both on the world to this day. The key question posed in Chapter 17 is whether political change can occur without fundamental social change and economic disruption. The text concludes that given the right circumstances—such as the comparatively simple problems faced by the Americans, and the freedom of being three thousand miles away—it was possible to replace one form of government with another, without a complete transformation of society. On the other hand the situation in France, which deteriorated quickly into bloodshed and dictatorship, indicated just how difficult it would be to institute a new governmental structure when entrenched religious, social, and economic forces stood in the way. Ultimately the rebellion in American and the revolution in France would become two great landmarks in the evolution of human freedom, demonstrating both the promise and the peril of change.
Transcript of Declaration of independence
Declaration of Independence
Jefferson said it was a blast against “chains” of “monkish ignorance and superstition” in which men had willingly bound themselves
American Rebellion
“The spirit of the European Enlightenment informed the American Declaration of Independence.”
– Reject monarchy/dynastic legitmacy – Began as tax revolt/fiscal crisis– Endorse Equality (white males)– Based on consent of governed– Inalienable Natural Rights– Including Right of Rebellion when rights
violated– Written constitution to limit govt power
John Locke 1632-1794
Key inspiration for Decl of Independence Physician “Two Treatises on Government” (1690)
argues consent of people basis of political legitimacy
Social contract theoryLimited government Natural rightsSeparation of Religion and Govt
faith private matter
Locke’s Letter on Toleration (1689) “chief identifying mark of the true Church”
Locke’s Letter on Toleration (1689)
French Revolution
• Murder king!
• Began as severe tax revolt/fiscal crisis, caused by French support of Americans!
• Declarations of Rights of Man and Citizen
.5 % Clergy & 1.5% Nobles, 1st and 2nd Estates , all wealth no taxes
86% of peasants, 3rd Estate, no wealth all taxes
Compare American Rebellion/French Revolution
Originated as tax revolts
British caused by fighting French
French caused by aiding Americans @ Brits!
Some Differences between the Rebellion and the Revolution?
• 1. Americans did not kill the king!
– Terror, determined fight by aristocrats all over Europe
• 2. Three thousands miles of ocean
• 3. George Washington! (He was not Bonaparte!)
