Student Question
Why does Jefferson emphasize that all peaceful measures were taken to get the King's attention?
Quick answer:
Jefferson emphasizes that all peaceful measures were taken to get the King's attention to underline the colonists' efforts to remain loyal and justify their separation. By listing grievances, he crafted a persuasive argument that blamed the king while avoiding alienating the British people, crucial for gaining international sympathy and support. This strategic approach was essential for the political ramifications of declaring independence, ensuring the argument was compelling and universally understood.
The reasoning behind Jefferson's intentions were to "spell" out why the separation was imminent.The document is usually viewed in three distinct parts.The principles and purpose of government, a list of complaints or grievences that the colonists held the king accountable for, and a declaration of war.The beauty of Jefferson's writing is in its style.The colonial grievences read like a "to do" list.Jefferson was deliberately using this manner of writing creating a very repetative sound in the mind of the reader. The document was intended to be one-sided, with the subtle reminder that the colonists tried their very best to remain loyal to the crown. Jefferson intentionally laid the blame at the feet of the king, as to not alienate the British people. He realized all too well if a new nation was born it would need all friends it could get. It must be understood that Jefferson realized that this document would be read by every nation, so it was imperative that everyone would 'hear" the words. The way he documents the tyranny of the king directly to the king, and with those same words created a very powerful editorial for the rest of the world to sympathize with the good people of the new United States. The political ramifications of what was about to happen in 1776 required an air tight argument, Jefferson gave that argument.
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