Read the excerpts from historical documents.

From the Declaration of Independence:

We . . . solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved . . .

From the Declaration of Sentiments:

. . . we insist that they have immediate admission to all the rights and privileges which belong to them as citizens of the United States.

How are these excerpts similar?

A. Both offer complaints.
B. Both recall history.
C. Both state demands.
D. Both admit defeat.

The Declaration of Independence justified the independence of the United States by enumerating colonial claims against Great Britain and affirming certain natural and legal rights, including the right of revolution. Having fulfilled its original mission of announcing independence, it demanded the total cessation of relations of colonialism on the part of Great Britain.

On the other hand, the Declaration of Sentiments faced women's political restrictions: not being able to vote, stand for elections, hold public office, join political organizations or attend political meetings. It also went against economic restrictions: the prohibition of having property, since the goods were transferred to the husband; the prohibition of engaging in trade, owning business or opening current accounts and expressed against the denial of civil or legal rights for women. It consisted of twelve decisions and includes two major sections: the demands to achieve civil citizenship for women and the principles that must change customs and morals.