The statement that best describes how the concept of natural rights influenced the creation of the Declaration of Independence is:
C. It introduced American thinkers to the idea that they needed to protect certain God-given privileges the British were denying them.
Here's why:
1. Natural rights are fundamental rights that are believed to be inherent to all individuals by virtue of their humanity, not granted by government or society.
2. The concept of natural rights, influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, inspired American colonists to realize that certain rights were being violated by British rule.
3. The Declaration of Independence was a response to these violations, asserting the colonies' right to govern themselves and protect their natural rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
4. Therefore, the idea that American thinkers needed to safeguard these God-given privileges from British oppression aligns closely with the influence of natural rights on the creation of the Declaration of Independence.