Declaration of Independence

Primary Source

What is the purpose of the declaration of independence

formally declare the separation of the 13 colonies from Great Britain with justification of the revolution by using their natural rights and grievances against the king

what are examples of the grievances outlined

obstruction of justice, tyrannical military presence, unjust punishments and taxes, war against the colonies, undermining self governmance

what is meant by the obstruction of justice

making legislative bodies meet in unfair locations to force compliance

What are the foundational/unalienable rights?

life liberty and the pursuit of happiness 

what is the purpose of the government

to protect the unalienable rights

what is the right to Revolution

the people have the right and duty to revolt when the government does not protect these unalienable rights

who was the committee who authored the document appointed by 

the continental congress

who was the primary author

thomas jefferson

who else helped write the declaration of independence

adams, franklin, sherman, livingston