What did the Declaration of Independence achieve?

The Declaration of Independence is a pivotal document in American history, as it formally announced the American colonies' decision to break away from British rule. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, the Declaration outlines the philosophical foundations of a new nation, emphasizing the principles of individual liberty and the right to self-determination. By declaring independence, the document effectively communicated to both the British Crown and the rest of the world that the thirteen colonies were no longer under British authority and intended to establish themselves as a separate and sovereign entity.

This assertion of independence was crucial in rallying support from other nations and solidifying a sense of American identity among the colonies. Unlike the establishment of the Constitution, which came later and provided the framework for governance, or the definitions of government roles and the Bill of Rights, the Declaration's main achievement was to proclaim the colonies' intention to be free and independent from British governance. This act of declaration was fundamental in initiating the Revolutionary War and eventually leading to the creation of the United States.