Question 4 • FL-1001420-AP English Language and Composition Sem 1 - Flex
Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence. "Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed." Why is this sentence included?
Answer
A
to encourage other colonies to wait before following the American colonists’ example
B
to underscore that the document’s signers do not take their actions lightly
C
to signal the signers’ faith that their new government will last centuries
D
to emphasize the historical nature of the signers’ actions
E
to show the British that they lost their chance to resolve things diplomatically
Explanation
The sentence says people generally tolerate problems rather than abolish familiar governments, unless the reasons for change are serious. By acknowledging that changing a long-established government is not done lightly, the signers emphasize that they have carefully considered their decision and believe the grievances are substantial. The best answer is B, to underscore that the document’s signers do not take their actions lightly.
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