Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson (excerpt) Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these States. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world. He has endeavored to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose, obstructing the laws for naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of lands. He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers. 1 Select the correct answer. Which statement best describes the claim made in the excerpt? A. Past events have proven that Britain seeks to oppress and control the colonies. B. Facts must be presented that the King is unjust to prove the case against Britain. C. Britain seeks to maintain tyranny over the colonies by preventing land ownership. D. The King of Britain has imposed cruel and unusual punishment on the colonies.