The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. This important document changed American history by officially declaring that the colonies were breaking away from British control. Here are some key people who helped create it:
Thomas Jefferson: He was the main writer and created the first draft. At just 33 years old, Jefferson was influenced by Enlightenment ideas, especially those about natural rights from thinker John Locke.
John Adams: Adams was a strong supporter of independence. He worked hard to convince Congress to agree to the declaration. Later, he helped edit Jefferson’s draft to make sure it met Congress’s expectations.
Benjamin Franklin: Franklin was an important leader who added valuable suggestions to the Declaration. His skills in diplomacy were crucial for getting help from other countries, especially France.
Roger Sherman: Sherman might not be as well-known, but he played an important role in writing the document. He helped make sure it was accepted by Congress by sharing his legal and political knowledge.
Robert Livingston: Livingston was part of the group with Jefferson and Adams that worked on the Declaration. However, he didn’t play a big part in the actual writing.
The Declaration talks about the colonies' complaints against King George III. It explains why the colonies wanted to govern themselves. One famous line states that “all men are created equal.” It highlights the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
When the Declaration was signed, it showed unity among the thirteen colonies. The signers were all different ages, ranging from 26 (Edward Rutledge) to 70 (Benjamin Franklin). This moment set an example for democratic values that inspired future movements around the world.
The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. This important document changed American history by officially declaring that the colonies were breaking away from British control. Here are some key people who helped create it:
Thomas Jefferson: He was the main writer and created the first draft. At just 33 years old, Jefferson was influenced by Enlightenment ideas, especially those about natural rights from thinker John Locke.
John Adams: Adams was a strong supporter of independence. He worked hard to convince Congress to agree to the declaration. Later, he helped edit Jefferson’s draft to make sure it met Congress’s expectations.
Benjamin Franklin: Franklin was an important leader who added valuable suggestions to the Declaration. His skills in diplomacy were crucial for getting help from other countries, especially France.
Roger Sherman: Sherman might not be as well-known, but he played an important role in writing the document. He helped make sure it was accepted by Congress by sharing his legal and political knowledge.
Robert Livingston: Livingston was part of the group with Jefferson and Adams that worked on the Declaration. However, he didn’t play a big part in the actual writing.
The Declaration talks about the colonies' complaints against King George III. It explains why the colonies wanted to govern themselves. One famous line states that “all men are created equal.” It highlights the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
When the Declaration was signed, it showed unity among the thirteen colonies. The signers were all different ages, ranging from 26 (Edward Rutledge) to 70 (Benjamin Franklin). This moment set an example for democratic values that inspired future movements around the world.