The Declaration of Independence is a cornerstone of American history, asserting the colonists' right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, it marks the colonies' break from British rule and outlines the principles of self-governance. Its influence extends to civil rights movements and democratic ideals worldwide, with its legacy celebrated every Independence Day.
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The American colonists were driven by a desire for self-governance and relief from oppressive policies
Authorship and Significance
Authored primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration of Independence marked a definitive step towards American sovereignty and remains a fundamental element of American heritage
The Declaration of Independence enshrines universal principles and the role of government in securing them
The Declaration asserts the equality of all people and their inherent rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, independent of government bestowal
The Declaration establishes that governments are instituted to protect these rights, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed
The Declaration states that it is the people's prerogative to modify or abolish any government that becomes detrimental to these ends
Colonial resistance intensified, leading to the convening of the First Continental Congress in 1774 and the onset of armed conflict in 1775
The Second Continental Congress ultimately adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, formally breaking political bonds with Britain
The Declaration is divided into five parts, including the introduction, preamble, main body, and conclusion, which collectively justify the necessity of independence and assert the colonies' status as free and independent states
The Declaration's proclamation that "all men are created equal" has fueled debates and movements for civil rights and has inspired numerous independence movements and democratic charters worldwide
The Declaration's legacy is celebrated annually on Independence Day in the United States, and its principles remain integral to the nation's identity and civic life
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The ______ ______ in the 18th century led to the colonists' desire to separate from ______ control.
American Revolution
British
01
The ______ of ______, primarily written by ______ ______, was ratified on ______ ______, ______.
Declaration
Independence
Thomas Jefferson
July 4
1776
02
Role of Government in the Declaration
To protect inherent rights: life, liberty, pursuit of happiness.
