AP Declaration of independence

Jefferson’s Audacious Vision In the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, former president of the United States, explains to the world why the American colonies declare independence from Great Britain. Jefferson’s purpose is to persuade the world to support the American colonists in their choice to separate themselves from the British. Through the use of repetition, pathos, diction, and imagery, Jefferson effectively states the American colonist’s grievances. Although Jefferson includes many convincing logical arguments, his eloquent writing skills create a persuasive document. Thomas Jefferson begins the Declaration of Independence by acknowledging the American colonist’s patience towards the King of Great Britain. Jefferson appeals to repetition by repeating the beginning of the grievances with “He”, referring to the king, and concentrating the anger of the people towards King George. Jefferson manages to voice the complaints of the people by stating, “He has forbidden his governors to pass laws…” and “He has refused to pass other laws…” (272). Jefferson uses the word “He” repeatedly in order to put the focus on the American colonist’s complaints rather than King George. Likewise, the repetition also allows Jefferson to show the world that the Declaration of Independence is written only for the King and not the British people. Through the use of repetition, Jefferson analyzes all the times the American colonists have been treated unfairly in addition to their ongoing struggles because of King George. Additionally, Thomas Jefferson continues to intensify the document and capture his reader’s emotions by using pathos. Jefferson appeals to the shameful emotions of King George by affirming “A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of free people” (276). Jefferson states that the American colonists know King George is not fit to be in a position of power. Jefferson also argues that in