Recording-2025-02-20T18:03:57.918Z

Key Events Surrounding the Declaration of Independence

• Final Version Completion: On July 2, 1776, delegates finalize the Declaration of Independence.

  • John Adams anticipates importance of this date, predicting celebrations.

  • Actual adoption takes place on July 4, 1776.

Definition and Concept of a State

• What is a State?: A state is a political entity that is sovereign and free.

  • The term 'state' symbolizes the collective legitimacy of governance.

  • Understanding of states evolved significantly post-Civil War.

  • Shift from pluralistic view "The United States are..." to singular "The United States is..." occurred.

The Enlightenment Influence

• Run-On Sentences: The Declaration's grammatical structure reflects the norms of its time.