Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, who is recognized for articulating the principles of individual rights and government accountability that form the backbone of American democracy. Jefferson’s eloquent writing encapsulated the colonies' desire for independence from British rule, emphasizing ideals such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

While John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington were influential figures in the founding of the United States and contributed to the independence movement, it was Jefferson who took the lead in drafting this historic document. Adams, for instance, played a crucial role in advocating for independence and supporting Jefferson’s work, but he was not the primary author. Franklin contributed to the committee overseeing the declaration and made edits but did not draft it. Washington served as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and later became the first president, but he was not involved in crafting the Declaration itself. Therefore, recognizing Jefferson as the principal author is significant in understanding the foundations of American governance and the philosophical underpinnings of democracy.