They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace friends. What is the meaning of this line from the Declaration of Independence?

A: The British government has supported the natural rights of the colonists over time, but the colonists believe they can do a better job on their own.

B: The colonists believe that the British government has abused its power and, as a result, they have the right to split away and start their own government.

C: The British government has not provided enough control to ensure the people’s safety and happiness, so the colonists are making a request for additional laws.

D: The colonists assign blame to the king, as well as the British people and Parliament, for ignoring their concerns and must separate themselves from both.