What strength did citizens gain when freedom of expression was treated as a natural right?

Correct answer: They got a basis to speak, write and hold opinions

The governing concept is the conversion of expression from a privilege controlled by rulers into a recognised right of citizens. If freedom of expression is treated as a natural right, people gain legitimate grounds to speak, write, publish ideas and hold opinions without needing the king's permission. Option C is therefore correct because it identifies the practical civic strength created by the right. Option A contradicts freedom by demanding praise for the ruler. Option B concerns feudal taxation and has no direct connection with expression, while option D reverses the meaning of press freedom. The important reasoning is that a recognised right gives citizens both moral and political justification to participate in public discussion and criticise authority.