Which document emphasizes natural rights such as life, liberty, and property?

Which document emphasizes natural rights such as life, liberty, and property?

• A. Mayflower Compact
• B. U.S. Constitution
• C. Declaration of Independence
• D. Articles of Confederation

Answer: (C)

Natural rights are inherent, not granted by government. This document makes that idea explicit by saying governments exist to protect unalienable rights such as life and liberty, and that people have the right to alter or abolish any government that threatens those rights. The language treats these rights as foundational and not subject to the whims of rulers, which is why it stands out as the clearest articulation of natural rights among the options. The other documents concentrate on forming a government or outlining its powers rather than grounding authority in inherent rights: the Mayflower Compact emphasizes voluntary agreement to govern, the Constitution provides the framework and later rights protections, and the Articles of Confederation describe a weak central authority.

Natural rights are inherent, not granted by government. This document makes that idea explicit by saying governments exist to protect unalienable rights such as life and liberty, and that people have the right to alter or abolish any government that threatens those rights. The language treats these rights as foundational and not subject to the whims of rulers, which is why it stands out as the clearest articulation of natural rights among the options. The other documents concentrate on forming a government or outlining its powers rather than grounding authority in inherent rights: the Mayflower Compact emphasizes voluntary agreement to govern, the Constitution provides the framework and later rights protections, and the Articles of Confederation describe a weak central authority.