The Declaration of Independence (1776)

Context Leading to 1776

• Rising Tensions: Tensions had been rising for years in the American colonies.
• Second Continental Congress: Already in session in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
• Cry for Independence: Becoming too fierce to ignore.

Committee Formation

• Date: June 11, 1776.
• Committee of Five: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, Thomas Jefferson, Robert Livingston.
• Task: Draft a formal declaration of independence.

Drafting the Declaration

• Duration: 17 days to draft.
• Main Author: Thomas Jefferson.
• Organization: Pre-Amble, Declaration of Natural Rights, List of Grievances, Resolution of Independence.

Sections of the Declaration

1. The Preamble

• Introduction: Justifies the need for separation.
• Quote: “When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands...”
• Paraphrase: Essentially announcing the break-up with Great Britain.

2. Declaration of Natural Rights

• Core Idea: Every citizen has certain unalienable rights.
• Famous Quote: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal...”
• Rights Listed: Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
• Government's Role: Power derives from the people, and it must secure these rights.
• Right to Revolution: If government abuses power, the people can overthrow it.

3. List of Grievances

• Purpose: Document complaints against King George III.
• Tone: Very critical, detailed list.
• Examples: Various injustices and wrongdoings were enumerated.

4. Resolution of Independence

• Declaration: Colonies declare they are free and independent states.
• Date of Adoption: July 4, 1776.

Impact

• New Nation: The American colonies officially became an independent nation.

Conclusion

• Adoption: Officially adopted by the Second Continental Congress.
• Significance: Marked the birth of a new nation, the United States of America.