Notes on the Declaration of Independence

Background and Context

• 10th May, 1776: Congress recommended that the colonies adopt governments best suited to their happiness and safety.
• 15th May, 1776: Resolution to suppress British authority entirely.
• 7th June, 1776: Resolutions for independence were proposed.
• 10th June, 1776: Committee appointed to draft a declaration of independence.
• Committee Members: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, Robert R. Livingston.

Creation of the Declaration

• 11th June, 1776: A committee formed to draft a confederation and propose treaties.
• 12th June, 1776: Board of war and ordnance established.
• 28th June, 1776: Draft of the Declaration presented to Congress.
• 1st July, 1776: Maryland authorized its delegates to support independence.
• 2nd July, 1776: Resolution for independence adopted.
• 4th July, 1776: Declaration of Independence agreed upon and signed by John Hancock.

Content of the Declaration

• Introduction: Justifies the colonies' decision to break away from Britain.
• Philosophical Foundation:
  • All men are created equal.
  • Rights to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.
  • Governments derive power from the consent of the governed.
  • Right to alter or abolish destructive governments.
• List of Grievances against King George III:
  • Refusal to assent to necessary laws.
  • Imposing taxes without consent.
  • Abolishing valued laws and altering forms of government.
  • Maintaining standing armies in peacetime without legislative consent.
  • Cutting off trade and denying trial by jury.
  • Transporting colonists for trial overseas.
  • Inciting violence and supporting hostile actions against the colonies.
• Failed Attempts for Redress: Petitioned for redress, but were met with repeated injuries.

Declaration

• Formal Declaration: Colonies declared as free and independent states with powers to engage in war, form alliances, and conduct trade.
• Pledge of Support: Signers pledge lives, fortunes, and sacred honor.
• Signatories: Listed by colony, with notable figures including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin.

Additional Notes

• The Declaration was engrossed on parchment and signed on 2nd August, except for Matthew Thornton who signed later.
• Document checked and confirmed for accuracy by Ferdinand Jefferson, Keeper of the Rolls.