my views on why America had to declare their independence from America based on two grounds justice and strategic value

my views on why America had to declare their independence from America based on two grounds justice and strategic value

Patriots

The catalyst for the revolutionary war that led to the emancipation of America from British colonial rule began by the circulation of a forty-six-page document “The common sense roll” detailing indirect language why America should free itself from the British and establish a republic. The document became an instant bestseller across the country because it resonated with the needs of the common folk. It caught the attention of Thomas Jefferson, who had hitherto considered Paine an extremist, inspiring him to draft the declaration of independence. In this paper, I will present my views on why America had to declare their independence from America based on two grounds justice and strategic value.

As Americans, we had endured many atrocities from England, as Thomas Paine rightly puts it, “Britain should be ashamed of her conduct. Even brutes do not turn on their young, nor do savages make war on their families.”(Paine,16) He further argues that the tyranny that drove the first emigrants from Europe is being meted on their descendants. The only way to rectify this injustice is to declare independence from Europe.

The declaration of independence states that all “all men are equal and independent. Governments derive their power from the people, and in case the government becomes destructive in their ends. It should abolish, and a new government instituted.” This was good enough reason to fight against the injustices of the colonialists.

In terms of Strategic value, America will prosper more without the influence of external power. Britain’s occupation of the American territory is to advance her business interests and control. Protection from our enemies is on Britain’s account and not ours. She wages wars with countries that America seeks to form valuable partnerships. This threatens our interests. Thomas Paine writes, “ America will be at peace  with Spain and France even if they were at war with England.”

It is evident from the presented arguments that for America to achieve her true potential and receives justice from the crimes committed against its citizens, the declaration for independence was the only solution.

Loyalists

What if Americans surrendered their weapons and pledged their fealty to the British monarchy? This was the desire of Reverent Inglish, an American loyalist, and colonist. He writes a document “A loyalists Rebuttal to common sense,” in which he scathingly attacks Thomas Paine’s agitation for war against the British. We shall look at the ideological and pragmatic reasons that refute the calls for armed reason against the British.

A lot of blood had already been shed, and a continuation of the war with the British means more lives will be lost. Charles Inglish says, “The blood of the slain, the weeping voice of nature cries-it is time to be reconciled.”  He urges that people lay down their differences and reconcile because it serves to advance their mutual interests.

Peace is a gift from heaven that everyone aspires; we only know of its value until we have lost it. It is, therefore, advantageous America is at peace with the British Empire.

The presence of war only disrupts business and other economic activities. Furthermore, the British have the strongest naval army in the world. This will prove useful in securing the business interests of Americans overseas. Another advantage is that it will save costs involved in Americans raising their naval army. The cost of importation from other countries will be much more expensive because of the British control most of the maritime waters.

When there is peace, there will be an influx of immigrants from Europe, and the value of the property will rise.

It is indispensable that Americans aspire to make peace with the British because it will serve to benefit them more than actually their colonizers. The economic benefits that come from the connexion with the British are immeasurable. “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of property” was a philosophy advanced by John Lock regarding the American way of living, which we can say was in total contrast with the Loyalist’s agenda.

Moderates.

During the declaration of independence, when leaders were agitating for war against the British, some leaders were considered moderates because they refuse to take sides. Some had to weigh the benefits of remain loyal to the king to rebellion. This paper looks at choices made by the moderates and if they were justified.

The opposers of independence argue that political choices have to be looked at coolly and analytically. The dilemma is to determine whether the benefits of revolting against the British outweigh those of remain loyal to the crown. Going to war will involve the destruction of property and disruption of business. John Dickson, in his speech, says, “that they have enjoyed liberty under the British monarch and clamor for independence will only bring leaders who are tyrannical in nature.” The peace enjoyed under the British Monarch will end. He further argues that countries that have business ties with America will cut them off, and the American coast will be awash with pirates from Africa and Europe.

The supporters of independence through a document authored by John Dickinson entitled “A declaration …Setting forth the Causes and Necessity of their taking up arms” outlines their reasons for revolting against the British. There were objectionable taxation policies that involved taxation without representation. The use of Admiralty courts that were often unfair in their rulings, the grievances presented by the colonies, was ignored. In conclusion, they posit that Freedom is their birthright, and they will continue with its defense until the monarch ceases the violations.

From the above arguments, the supporters of independence make a strong case for their cause because what they aspire for touches directly on the fundamental rights and freedoms of an individual. The question I would pose to the patriots; is the loss of human life worth the pursuit of Freedom? To the loyalists, I would ask; Are you free if you still require seeking permission to your oppressors?

Works cited

Paine, T. (2012). Thomas Paine on Liberty: Common Sense and Other Writings. New York, NY: Sky horse Publishing.