Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

Which right did the colonists see as "inalienable" in the Declaration of Independence?

1. Life

2. Liberty

3. Pursuit of happiness

4. Property

The correct answer is: Pursuit of happiness

The concept of "inalienable rights," as outlined in the Declaration of Independence, refers to fundamental rights that cannot be surrendered or transferred. In the document, the colonists specifically articulated that individuals are entitled to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" as fundamental rights endowed by their Creator. While "life" and "liberty" are undoubtedly significant in the context of the Declaration, it is the "pursuit of happiness" that encapsulates the broader aspirations of the colonists in seeking not just survival or freedom, but also the opportunity to seek personal fulfillment and well-being. This term reflects the Enlightenment ideals of individualism and personal choice, emphasizing the belief that people have the right to pursue their own paths to happiness without undue interference from the government. While "property" is an important concept in discussions of rights, it is not framed as an inalienable right in the Declaration itself; rather, the Declaration focuses on the broader and more philosophical notion of happiness. Thus, the correct answer reflects the colonists’ vision of the ideals they hoped to secure for themselves and future generations.