The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

1

Title

The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This seminal document outlines the philosophical and political justifications for American independence. With its iconic assertion of unalienable rights and a detailed indictment of British tyranny, it stands as a foundational text of liberty and democratic governance.

Summary up to 500 words

Written by Thomas Jefferson and adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, *The Declaration of Independence* stands as the foundational document declaring the thirteen united colonies as free and independent states. The text begins with a profound assertion of political philosophy: governments derive their just powers solely from the consent of the governed. It posits that all men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with unalienable rights to Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. Consequently, whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right and duty of the people to alter or abolish it and institute a new one based on principles ensuring their safety and happiness. The document meticulously details the history of King George III, characterizing it as a history of repeated injuries and usurpations designed to establish absolute tyranny over the states. Jefferson presents a catalog of specific grievances, including the King's refusal to assent to necessary laws, the obstruction of naturalization, the erection of new offices to harass the people, and the maintenance of standing armies without legislative consent. The text accuses the monarch of quartering troops, depriving citizens of trial by jury, imposing taxes without consent, and waging war against the colonies. Furthermore, it notes the King's efforts to incite domestic insurrections and enslave Native Americans. Despite humble petitions for redress, the King's character is marked by every act defining a tyrant, rendering him unfit to rule a free people. Jefferson emphasizes that the colonies have not neglected their British brethren, warning them against unwarrantable jurisdiction and appealing to their common kindred. Having received only repeated injury in response, the representatives declare that the political connection between the colonies and Great Britain is totally dissolved. The document concludes with a solemn pledge of lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to support the cause of separation, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of their intentions. This historic text, preserved here with historical notes and images of Jefferson's handwritten drafts, corrects minor discrepancies found in earlier facsimiles while maintaining the spirit of the original electronic release.

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Categories

• History
• Politics