Declaration of Independence

Definition

The Declaration of Independence is a historic document adopted on July 4, 1776, that announced the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule. It articulated the principles of individual liberty, government by consent, and the right to alter or abolish oppressive governance, serving as a foundational text for American democracy and national identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Declaration was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, and is celebrated annually in the United States as Independence Day.
2. It outlines a series of grievances against King George III, justifying the colonies' break from British rule by highlighting violations of their rights.
3. The phrase 'life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness' reflects Enlightenment thought and has become a defining principle of American values.
4. The document established the idea that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed, laying the groundwork for modern democratic governance.
5. While it proclaimed freedom for the colonies, it did not address slavery or the rights of Native Americans, highlighting contradictions in American ideals.

Review Questions

• What key principles are outlined in the Declaration of Independence, and how do they reflect Enlightenment thought?
  • The Declaration of Independence outlines essential principles such as individual liberty, equality, and government by consent. These ideas are rooted in Enlightenment thought, particularly in emphasizing reason and questioning traditional authority. By asserting that all men are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights, it reflects Enlightenment ideals that advocate for personal freedom and challenge oppressive rule.
• Analyze how the grievances listed against King George III in the Declaration contributed to colonial unity during the Revolutionary War.
  • The grievances against King George III served as a unifying force among the colonies by articulating shared frustrations with British rule. By collectively identifying issues such as taxation without representation and restrictions on trade, these grievances fostered a sense of solidarity among diverse colonial factions. This unity was crucial for mobilizing support for independence and sustaining efforts during the Revolutionary War.
• Evaluate the impact of the Declaration of Independence on later movements for rights and freedoms both in America and globally.
  • The Declaration of Independence had a profound impact on subsequent movements for rights and freedoms by establishing a framework for challenging tyranny and advocating for self-governance. Its assertion that governments must respect individual rights inspired various civil rights movements within America and influenced global struggles for independence and democracy. Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. drew upon its principles to argue against injustice, demonstrating its lasting relevance in promoting human rights.

Related terms

Thomas Jefferson:

The principal author of the Declaration of Independence, who articulated the Enlightenment ideals of natural rights and government accountability in the text.

Enlightenment: An intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of authority, influencing the ideas expressed in the Declaration.

Revolutionary War: The conflict that ensued following the Declaration of Independence, where the colonies fought for their freedom from British control.