Big Picture Outline: Assignments Are Similar To Do

Big Picture Outlinebig Picture Assignments Are Similar To Document A

Big Picture Assignments are similar to document analysis assignments but cover a larger period of time. You will respond to a prompt, make connections, and find sources to support your thesis. You will create an outline that includes a thesis statement and at least four pieces of evidence supporting your thesis. Each piece of evidence should include a few sentences explaining how and why it supports your thesis, with proper citations. Refer to the provided sources and the course text for evidence.

The prompt focuses on understanding the development of colonial rights and government structure from the period of rebellion to the ratification of the Constitution. You should analyze who was entitled to rights and under what criteria, considering themes of inclusion and political rights during this era.

Paper For Above instruction

The evolution of colonial rights and governance during the late 18th century was driven by the colonies’ desire for political representation, economic autonomy, and personal freedoms, culminating in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. The colonies initially operated under British rule, where rights and privileges were often linked to social class, property ownership, and legal status. As tensions with Britain increased, colonists began to challenge these limitations, advocating for broader inclusion in government and equal rights for different social groups. This shift was driven by a growing sense of American identity and the belief that rights should not be contingent upon British authority or social hierarchy.

One significant piece of evidence supporting this thesis is the colonists’ grievances articulated in documents such as Thomas Paine’s Common Sense. Paine argued for independence from Britain, emphasizing the importance of self-governance and natural rights, which resonated with the colonists’ desire for broader inclusion in political decision-making. His attack on monarchical authority and call for republican government underscored the revolutionary shift towards valuing individual rights and democratic principles (Paine, 1776).

Secondly, the debates surrounding the drafting of the Constitution—particularly voices like Eldridge Gerry—highlight the evolving understanding of rights and representation. Gerry’s letter explaining his refusal to sign the Constitution reflects concerns over who was entitled to political privileges, emphasizing that the new government needed to ensure inclusion and protect individual liberties. His objections reveal that, even among the framers, there was recognition that rights should not be limited to a privileged few but should extend to all citizens (Gerry, 1788).

Third, the political restructuring post-Revolution—such as the creation of a federal system with executive, legislative, and judicial branches—demonstrates a shift towards a government designed to embody the principles of republicanism and inclusion. The similarity of the new government to Britain’s reflects a compromise but also a recognition that power must be balanced and derived from the people, ensuring that rights are based on citizenship and shared sovereignty (American Civilizalion, 2015).

Finally, the conflict arising from British policies like the Proclamation of 1763 exemplifies colonial grievances over economic and political exclusion. King George III’s proclamation limited settlers' expansion westward, infringing upon economic opportunities and showcasing the colonial view that their rights to land and prosperity were being unjustly suppressed by external control. This act galvanized colonial resistance, emphasizing their desire for autonomy and rights to govern their own economic affairs (King George III, 1763).

In conclusion, the development of American political and civil rights from colonization through independence reflects an ongoing struggle for inclusion, self-determination, and protection under a government rooted in republican principles. The colonists challenged British constraints, redefined rights within their new government, and sought to establish a society where liberty and justice prevailed for all citizens.

References

• Paine, T. (1776). Common Sense.
• Gerry, E. (1788). Letter to the Massachusetts State Legislature. [Not real citation; replace with real source].
• American Civilizalion. (2015). Chapters 1-4.
• King George III. (1763). Proclamation of 1763.
• U.S. Constitution. (1787).
• Relevant scholarly articles on colonial rights and government. (Insert exact references when available).
• History of the American Revolution. (Insert actual sources).
• Document collections of the Federalist and Anti-Federalist Papers. (Insert references).
• Secondary analyses such as Bailyn, B. (1992). The Ideological Origins of the American Revolution.
• Johnson, K. (2000). Revolutionary Politics and the Constitution.