What was the purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

The purpose of the Declaration of Independence was to declare independence from British rule. This pivotal document, adopted on July 4, 1776, articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and outlined their right to self-governance. It served as a formal assertion of the colonies' intent to break away from British control and establish themselves as a separate nation. By expressing the philosophical underpinnings of democracy and the inherent rights of individuals, particularly the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the Declaration galvanized support for independence and laid the groundwork for the eventual establishment of the United States.