Before writing the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson made his views known through "A Summary View of the Rights of British America" and other essays. This essay discusses the historical roots of independence and inalienable rights. The words document Jefferson's passionate beliefs in America as sovereign and not subject to British authority. In his essay he cites evidence that self-government had been part of the earliest colonial governments and "with consent of the inhabitants" had been phrasing of the founding charters. Jefferson also recounts the abuses of power of the king and Parliament and argues that England no longer had right to exercise any authority in the New World because of violation of governmental responsibilities and individual rights.
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