Logo: Project Citizen

Lesson 8: What Basic Ideas about Government Are in the Declaration of Independence?

Image

Lesson Purpose

One of the most important documents in American history is the Declaration of Independence. It summarizes the colonists' basic ideas about government. The Declaration lists the colonies' complaints against the British government. The Declaration also explains the reasons why the colonies decided to declare their independence from Great Britain.

Lesson Objectives

When you finish this lesson, you should be able to explain the main ideas that are in the Declaration of Independence.

Lesson Terms

abolish
To formally put an end to.
Loyalists
natural law
Patriots
self-evident
unalienable rights
About

CCE LogoThis site is brought to you by the Center for Civic Education. The Center's mission is to promote an enlightened and responsible citizenry committed to democratic principles and actively engaged in the practice of democracy. The Center has reached more than 30 million students and their teachers since 1965. Learn more.

Center for Civic Education

5115 Douglas Fir Road, Suite J
Calabasas, CA 91302

  Phone: (818) 591-9321

  Email: web@civiced.org

  Media Inquiries: cce@civiced.org

  Website: www.civiced.org

© Center for Civic Education