What is the author's purpose in this excerpt?

O to inform readers about different systems of government

to inform readers about recent governmental reforms

O to persuade readers of the need for governmental

change

to persuade readers to petition their local governments

It is C I just took the test!

This question is incomplete. Its full version is:

Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence. Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to affect their Safety and Happiness. What is the author's purpose in this excerpt?

To inform readers about different systems of government. To inform readers about recent governmental reforms. To persuade readers of the need for governmental change. To persuade readers to petition their local governments.

The answer is option 3.

The purpose of this excerpt is to persuade readers of the need for governmental change.

The excerpt appeals to reflection as regards the reasons for a government to be instituted among men. It clearly states that power comes from the people, and when people feel betrayed by the government, they have the right to institute a new one to ensure their safety and happiness.