In the Declaration of Independence, the phrase all experience hath shewn appears in a key section that justifies the American colonies’ decision to break from British rule. It reads: Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to sufferÂ… This archaic phrasing requires some explanation for modern readers. Let’s explore what hath shewn means, why Jefferson used it, and how this wording strengthens the document’s argument.
Understanding hath shewn
Archaic Language and Meaning
The word hath is an older form of has, and shewn is an archaic past participle of show. Therefore, all experience hath shewn translates to all experience has shown. Jefferson used this formal language to convey gravity and timelessness, making the argument sound universal rather than personal or temporary. It reflects the style of legal and philosophical writing of the time and connects the argument to a long tradition of enlightened thought.
Reason for the Formal Tone
By choosing such phrasing, Jefferson underscored that the colonies were drawing not from a momentary grievance but from long-observed human behavior. This elevated the Declaration from a heated political statement to a reasoned, almost philosophical document grounded in shared wisdom. It lent credibility and authority to the radical act of declaring independence.
The Role of Prudence and Experience
Prudence as a Guiding Principle
Jefferson introduces the concept of prudence to acknowledge that such a drastic step shouldn’t be taken lightly. He states that governments should not be changed for light and transient causes. But the phrase all experience hath shewn serves to justify the decision. It implies that history teaches people to endure bad governance until the situation becomes intolerable. This notion aligns with classical ideas that caution and deliberation are essential before taking bold action.
Experience as Evidence
Using experience as evidence anchors the Declaration’s argument in observed human behavior rather than pure theory or ideological rhetoric. It suggests that the colonists are following a rational pattern seen across time and geography: people often endure injustices until the pain outweighs the fear of change, and when that threshold is crossed, they are compelled to act.
The Broader Argument in Context
Examining the Full Passage
The full clause reads:
Prudence… dictates that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.
This statement acts as a bridge between philosophical justification and action. It transitions from general principles rights, consent, and prudence to the practical reality that change becomes necessary in the face of persistent abuses.
Temperance with Urgency
By acknowledging that humans prefer to endure suffering, Jefferson emphasizes that the colonies’ call for independence is not impulsive or reckless. It is a reluctant but necessary response after years of grievances and broken promises. This balance of restraint and resolve was intended to appeal to both fellow colonists and international observers.
Importance of Clarity and Rhetorical Power
Strengthening the Case
All experience hath shewn gives the Declaration intellectual depth and moral weight. It transforms the colonies’ case from emotional protest into a disciplined appeal supported by universal human tendencies. This made the Declaration not just a cry for freedom but a reasoned argument for legitimacy on the world stage.
Philosophical and Legal Precedent
Jefferson’s phrasing echoes Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, whose theories emphasized experience and consent as bases for political legitimacy. By framing the argument in this way, Jefferson placed the Declaration within a broader intellectual lineage, aligning the American cause with universal principles of governance and justice.
Modern Understanding of the Phrase
Common Translation
Today, historians and educators often translate the line simply as, Experience has shown that people are more likely to sufferÂ… This modernization makes the text accessible while retaining the philosophical insight. It highlights the timeless quality of the sentiment and helps contemporary readers connect with the argument’s logic.
Relevance to Modern Democratic Thought
The principle behind all experience hath shewn remains relevant today: meaningful change often comes after prolonged endurance and reflection. Whether in politics, civil rights, or governance reform, progress typically arises when suffering reaches a tipping point and collective action becomes unavoidable.
Why the Declaration’s Language Matters
Framing Independence as Deserved
The formal and measured tone signals that independence was not just desired but warranted. By stating that enduring suffering is human nature, Jefferson frames the Declaration as a rational and moral response, not rebellion. This distinction was crucial for gaining support among colonists and international allies who valued legitimacy and order.
Lasting Influence
The sophistication of the Declaration’s rhetoric its philosophical references, balanced tone, and appeal to human nature has contributed to its lasting power. Its language continues to resonate as a model for subsequent struggles for freedom and rights globally, proving how carefully chosen phrases can shape history.
In the phrase ‘all experience hath shewn,’ Thomas Jefferson harnessed the weight of collective human history to reinforce the moral and practical rationale for independence. By pointing to a universal tendency to endure before acting, he demonstrated that the revolution was not rash but necessary. This careful construction melding prudence, evidence, and moral urgency turns the Declaration into more than a political act: it became a timeless statement on governance, legitimacy, and the human spirit’s demand for justice.