US Declaration of Independence

The US Declaration of Independence, adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, is a foundational document of the United States that formally proclaimed the thirteen American colonies' separation from Great Britain. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the declaration outlines grievances against King George III and asserts the colonies' inherent rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. By adopting the Declaration, the colonies declared themselves to be independent states, free from British rule, and justified their right to revolt against a government that no longer secured their unalienable rights.