​Early American History

 

 

 

 

The year 1776, shortly after the beginning of the American Revolutionary war, the leaders of the war got together to write a letter to the King of England, King George III. They wanted to explain the reasons why America was fighting to be its own country, independent of England.
Drafted by Thomas Jefferson between June 11th and June 28th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence is at once the nation's most cherished symbol of freedom and Jefferson's most enduring monument.
John Adams was a leader in pushing for independence, which was unanimously approved on July 2. A committee of five had already drafted the formal declaration, to be ready when Congress voted on independence. The term "Declaration of Independence" is not used in the document itself.
By issuing the declaration of independence, adopted by the Continental Congress July 4, 1776, the 13 American colonies severed political connections to Britain. The Declaration showed the colonists' motivations for seeking their independence. By declaring themselves an independent nation, the American colonists' were able to form an official allience with the government of France and obtain French assistance in the war against Great Britain.
July 4th is now celebrated as America's 'birthday'. It celebrates the "Unanimous Declaration of the thirteen United States of America." The Declaration remains the most noble, famous, and powerful statement of the basis of government ever written. It is unique. It has shaped a people and a nation, and it has helped to shape the world.