Question

source: declaration of independence, july 4, 1776
“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.”

1. what is the central idea of this excerpt? * required

happiness is only attainable through strong leadership.
all people are born with rights, and governments must protect those rights.
kings have a divine right to rule over their people.
governments exist to limit people’s freedoms.

Explanation:

The excerpt from the Declaration of Independence emphasizes that all men are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights like Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness, and governments are instituted to secure these rights, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.

Answer:

All people are born with rights, and governments must protect those rights.