Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

Which document provided justification for the Declaration of Independence?

1. Federalist Papers

2. Common Sense

3. Articles of Confederation

4. Bill of Rights

The correct answer is: Common Sense

The document that provided justification for the Declaration of Independence is "Common Sense." Written by Thomas Paine in 1776, "Common Sense" articulated powerful arguments for American independence from British rule. It effectively addressed the reasons why independence was not only necessary but also desirable, proposing that a new government based on democratic principles should replace the monarchy. The clear and persuasive writing style resonated with the colonists and helped to galvanize public opinion in favor of the revolutionary cause. By advocating for independence and presenting a compelling critique of monarchical government, Paine’s work laid the ideological groundwork that the signers of the Declaration of Independence built upon, underlining the call for freedom and self-governance. This alignment of thought makes "Common Sense" a pivotal document in justifying the actions taken in the Declaration itself.