Written for the Powers of the World

The main purpose of America's Declaration of Independence was to explain to foreign nations why the colonies had chosen to separate themselves from Great Britain. The Revolutionary War had already begun, and several major battles had already taken place. The American colonies had already cut most major ties to England and had established their own congress, currency, army, and post office. On June 7, 1776, at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Richard Henry Lee voiced a resolution that the United States should be completely free of England's influence, and that all political ties between the two countries should be dissolved. Congress agreed and began plans to publish a formal declaration of independence and appointed a committee of five members to draft the declaration.

Explaining that Parliament had Failed the People

Thomas Jefferson was chosen to draft the letter, which he did in a single day. Four other members—Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams—were part of the committee to help Jefferson. In the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson explained that a body of people has a right to change governments if that government becomes oppressive (unfair and controlling). He further explained that governments fail when they no longer have the consent of the governed. Since Parliament clearly lacked the consent of the American colonists to govern them, it was no longer legitimate.

Learn more about: Thomas Jefferson | Benjamin Franklin | John Adams | Roger Sherman

Approved and Signed

The Declaration was presented to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 2, 1776. It was approved with a few minor changes. Of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, John Hancock, of Massachusetts, was the first.

Learn more about John Hancock | Try the John Hancock Challenge!!

Independence Hall - Site of the Drafting of the Declaration of Independence

Discussion Questions

1. Why did the American colonies want to explain their decision to foreign nations?
2. What reasons did Jefferson give for breaking away from Great Britain?
3. How did the colonists show they were already acting as an independent country before the Declaration?
4. Why do you think it was important to get approval and signatures from many representatives?

Glossary

• Declaration of Independence – A document stating that the American colonies were free and independent from British rule.
• Oppressive – Unfair and harsh; using power in a cruel or unjust way.
• Consent of the governed – The idea that governments get their power from the people they govern.
• Continental Congress – A group of leaders from the colonies who met to make decisions during the American Revolution.
• Resolution – A formal decision made by a group, often after voting.