The Declaration of Independence

Ink and Quill"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

- The Declaration of Independence

It is arguably one of the most quoted documents throughout history. Because of that, you may be familiar with some of the ideas and phrases expressed in it. What you may not be as familiar with is the inspiration behind the document. Who wrote it and why? Where did the ideas and inspiration for it come from? In this topic, you will learn about one of the most significant documents in American history, The Declaration of Independence.

Essential Questions

  • How were the core values of American government influenced by European philosophers?
  • How did John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau's views on natural rights impact the writing of the Declaration of Independence?