What did americans in the early 1800s mean by the terms equality and independence? what role did these terms play in shaping their social and political ideals?

They believed in democracy and the ability for men to make decisions about their communities and lives as a whole and not being under the power of an authoritative dictator that made decisions for them. This helped shape social and political ideals as it established a basis for law making and leadership. This also influenced ideas on slavery that would later set a basis for cultural and social change.

Me snagging these free points hehehe

The answer choice would be a (a shade of meaning)