Declaration of Independence Because it

¶ … Declaration of Independence because it stands for freedom and the right to create government. Also these words are inspiring in this time of war. Our Founding Fathers wrote:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. (Congress, 1776)

This paper will explore the linguistic analysis of specific wording and provide definition for state, time orientation. This paper will also analyze the grammar and style of this excerpt. These words have a powerful tone but at not always using the active voice. What is the general assessment of the document regarding American Declaration? What is this paragraph saying to Americans? How does it orient into culture? Does it have social or personal implications? What institutions are likely to exist in this selection? The paragraphs below will elaborate on these concepts.

Linguistic Analysis

Out of the selection many words are powerful. The opening "we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal" (Congress, 1776) defines to the world the United States values equality for all men above all else. This seems out-dated and narrow-minded. It does not include the rights of women, children, the disabled or minorities. The use of the word "man" was chosen language of the time. The piece continues with the phrase "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" (Congress, 1776). This implies these items still need to be achieved in the future. "Laying its foundation for such principles" also, suggests the Constitution is not perfect as written and remains an ever-changing document and a work in progress.

Grammar and Style

The Founding Fathers used powerful verbs like "hold," "secure," "institute," "alter," and "organizing" (Congress, 1776) to convey a message. It is almost as if they are taking a stand against the evil of the world. They did this knowing strong grammar would be essential in creating a foundation for freedom. When speaking of "what-if" scenarios like "government becomes destructive" or " it is the right" (Congress, 1776), the passive voice cannot help but be used. Still it used repetitiously to convey poetic rhythm and strength. Bold use of words makes this selection almost lyrical and captivates, mandates attention. Still the voice is based out of a solid religious belief of a Creator.

Assessment, Culture and Institutions general assessment of American Declaration regarding this selection is simple. It outlines clearly the intentions and plans for a free governing state created by its people for its people. The Declaration shouts, "We are here to stay!" It implores people if these intentions are fulfilled, happiness will result. This is a bold statement for its time. The culture of this document is very much engrained in the concept of a Creator or God. This is inherent of the time. America's creation is based out of religious freedom because of persecution elsewhere. This makes this document not only social but also deeply personal. A person's view of God or the Creator is an emotional connection and personal decision. By putting this in the foundation of government, the Founding Fathers were hoping to gain the trust of Americans. Even today much of how we do things is based in the Creator. The recent election is indication of this. As Americans we need something to believe in and the Creator is an absolute. By basing this document in religious undertones, not only inspires but it also makes it very difficult to destroy completely. As Americans, we may build on the foundation because we are constantly pursuing our rights and utilizing our freedom but we will not start over.

All institutions stem out of this document, one way or another. It is the basis of our government. Still specifically, the right to equality and the right to change government stand out. Because of this document, we are allowed a voice. Can one imagine? What it must be like to not be allowed an opinion or be jailed even killed when acting upon this voice? And without this voice, our government would remain stagnant and one-sided. Because of this document we are allowed to pursue creative opportunities and exist in a free marketplace.