Whose ideas inspired Thomas Jefferson as he drafted the American Declaration of Independence?
A. John Locke's political ideas about a government free from the monarchy.
B. Thomas Paine's ideas about a republic and a government that was not based on heredity.
C. Richard Henry Lee's ideas about the colonies as an independent and united nation.
D. Benjamin Franklin's ideas about a government for the people, by the people, and of the people.

Question

GinnyAnswer · Answer

Thomas Jefferson was primarily inspired by John Locke's political ideas, emphasizing natural rights and government by consent. While he was also influenced by Enlightenment thinkers and Thomas Paine's republican ideas, Locke's philosophy laid the foundation for the Declaration of Independence. This focus on individual rights and the role of government significantly shaped Jefferson's writing. ;

Answered by GinnyAnswer | 2025-07-08

Anonymous · Answer

Thomas Jefferson was mainly inspired by John Locke's political ideas while drafting the Declaration of Independence, particularly regarding natural rights and government by consent. Locke's philosophy emphasized that governments must serve the people and that individuals have the right to change or abolish an ineffective government. Although influenced by others like Thomas Paine, Locke's ideas served as the foundation for Jefferson's principles in the Declaration. 
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