Rhetorical Devices In The Declaration Of Independence

Ainsley Kelver

AP Language and Composition

Mrs. Hoefer

April 22, 2023 RA Prompt The Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, after a long and grueling conflict between the United States and The United Kingdom. During the Revolution, there was a political division among the American colonies. While some colonies supported independence, others continued to support the British throne. Within the patriot movement, there were conflicts between those who supported a more radical strategy for revolution and those who supported a more moderate strategy. Patrick Henry of Virginia sided with a more radical approach to the war, delivering a speech to delegates in the State of Virginia. Henry utilizes a poignant tone while concurrently instilling

In approval of armed rebellion, Henry discredits the notion that the United States army is weak, stating “Sir, we are not weak, if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power.” By reminding the delegates of the faith and strength of God, Henry builds confidence among his fellow politicians and reminds them that the impossible is possible with hope. The speaker also reminds the audience that “we shall not fight our battles alone.” once again reminding the audience that they have the strength of God to help them get through the war. Henry improves both his own credibility by expressing his confidence and the country's credibility by underlining the strength of the nation and informing the delegates of that strength. Furthermore, Patrick Henry of Virginia builds trust among his audience when shedding light on the reason for fighting, freedom. Henry states, “Three million people, armed in the holy cause of liberty.” The author reminds the audience that individuals are unable to express themselves, pursue their interests and aspirations, or fully engage in society without freedom. People who are allowed to experiment with new concepts and lifestyles are more likely to innovate, be creative, and advance society; which ultimately brings credibility to his overarching point that armed rebellion is crucial for the

Anne Frank was a young Jewish girl living in Amsterdam during the occupation by the Nazis. She was forced to go into hiding above her father's work for two years to avoid prison. During her time in hiding, she kept a diary and wrote about her experience. Frank writes about her loving and compassionate family and also mentions how she has built new relationships with the other families in the house. In her diaries, Frank frequently emphasizes the value of family, emphasizing how her trials were made easier by the presence of those she loved who understood what she was going through. Additionally, Anne Frank talked about her relationship with her mother, saying that her mother thought of Anne and her sister Margot as friends more than daughters. She also talks about her romantic feelings for another boy living in the house named Peter. Both these examples display that identifying with other people and creating a culture can make life seem easier even through the toughest times. Anne’s childhood was taken away from her and she was forced to hide in order to survive, but she found relationships were the best way to find a positive out of a negative situation. Overall, identifying with a culture of nationality will help people feel more unified and help them persevere through their shared