The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America" by Thomas Jefferson is a historic and foundational document penned in the late 18th century during the American Revolutionary period. This work primarily serves as a formal statement declaring the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule, asserting their right to self-governance and independence. It encapsulates the philosophical underpinnings of democracy, highlighting fundamental human rights and the social contract between the government and the governed. The text begins with a powerful introduction that outlines the principles of equality and the unalienable rights of individuals to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It details the various grievances against King George III, illustrating how his actions have eroded the colonists' rights and justified their decision to seek independence. By listing these grievances, the document seeks to assert the colonies' legitimate claim to self-determination. The Declaration culminates in a solemn proclamation of independence, stating that the colonies are entitled to be free and independent states, free from British authority and capable of forming their own alliances, levying war, and engaging in commerce. The Declaration's closing emphasizes the signers' mutual pledge to support this cause, reinforcing the commitment of the colonists to their newly proclaimed liberty. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Notes:

Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Declaration_of_Independence

This is the original PG edition. See also our revised edition: #16780 See also #300

Reading ease score: 52.1 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.

Release date is 1971-12-01