7. According to this statement what does Thomas Paine suggest the American colonies should do? (AH.C&G.1.1) "A government of our own is our natural right. __ Ye that oppose independence now, ye know not what ye do: ye are opening the door to eternal tyranny. __ There are thousands and tens of thousands, who would think it glorious to expel from the Continent __ -Thomas Paine, 1776 a. Maintain our allegiance to England because the colonies are too inexperienced and need protection from tyrants b. Declare a ceasefire with England and negotiate an end to the conflict to avoid the creation of powerful colonial governments c. Maintain colonial independence but enforce the abolishment of the mercantile system of trade. d. Declare independence from England because it is our natural right to protect ourselves from tyranny