Which Enlightenment philosopher is most directly credited with the concept of 'natural rights' that Jefferson adapted into 'Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness'?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: John Locke
John Locke's 'Second Treatise of Government' argued that all individuals are born with natural rights to life, liberty, and property. Jefferson famously substituted 'property' with 'the pursuit of happiness' to encompass a broader sense of individual fulfillment.
Keep practicing
More Declaration of Independence questions
- What was the primary purpose of the 'List of Grievances' included in the Declaration of Independence?
- The Declaration of Independence officially ended the political ties between the American colonies and which entity?
- According to the Declaration of Independence, what is the 'Self-Evident' truth regarding all men?
- Why did the Continental Congress delete a specific grievance regarding the Atlantic Slave Trade from Jefferson’s original draft?
- In the context of the Declaration, what does the term 'unalienable rights' mean?
- Which grievance in the Declaration specifically addressed the British response to the Boston Tea Party?