What did the Declaration of Independence do?

The Declaration of Independence is a foundational document in American history that officially announced the colonies' separation from Great Britain. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, this declaration articulated the reasons for seeking independence, emphasizing the colonies' grievances against King George III and asserting their right to self-govern. The document asserted principles of individual liberty and the belief that governments derive their powers from the consent of the governed, making it a powerful statement advocating for democratic ideals.

Choosing to announce independence rather than pursue other actions, such as establishing the Constitution or declaring war, highlights the significance of the document itself. While the Constitution later established the framework for the U.S. government, this was not the purpose of the Declaration. Additionally, the Declaration did not directly initiate military action, nor did it address the issue of westward expansion, which became relevant later in U.S. history. Instead, its primary role was to inform both the British Crown and the world that the American colonies were now independent states, ready to chart their own course.