“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.”

Why is this excerpt from the Declaration of Independence absolutely key to an understanding of American politics and government? What sort of things does it tell us concerning government?

How/why are such things important for our developing understanding of American politics and government?

 

In what ways can we see the importance of this excerpt in the formulation of the Constitution?

what are three barrie’s to true freeform faced by free blacks in the north,south , and far west. Explain how each one reveals that “all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life , liberty , and the pursuit of happiness”

Hamilton promoted a 'loose' reading of the Constitution, while Jefferson promoted a 'tight' reading. These two doctrines of constitutional interpretation are very different, and result in very different understandings of the Constitution. Explain this difference and why it is significant for American Politics and Government.

Can individuals be considered equal under a government that adheres to an understanding/definition of rights as government-given? Why or why not? 

(It may be helpful to think in terms of the Bill of Rights v. the 'Second Bill of Rights')