Question

read the following excerpt from the writings of a latin american revolutionary leader. which enlightenment principle is described in the excerpt?

generous souls always interest themselves in the fate of a people who strive to recover the rights to which the creator and nature have entitled them, and one must indeed be wedded to error and passion not to harbor this noble sentiment. you have given thought to my country and are concerned in its behalf, and for your kindness i am warmly grateful.¹

a. social contract
b. popular sovereignty
c. natural rights
d. separation of powers

Explanation:

The excerpt explicitly references rights "the Creator and Nature have entitled" a people to recover, which directly aligns with the Enlightenment principle of natural rights—innate rights granted by nature or a higher power, not governments. The other options do not match: social contract focuses on authority from an agreement, popular sovereignty centers on people as the source of political power, and separation of powers involves dividing government authority.

Answer:

C. Natural rights