Declaration of Independence: Core Purpose & Unalienable Rights

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What is the primary purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

To formally announce and justify the American colonies' separation from Great Britain and to declare that they were now independent states.

Who is considered the main author of the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson.

On what date was the Declaration of Independence adopted by the Second Continental Congress?

July 4, 1776.

What famous document begins with the words, "We hold these truths to be self-evident..."?

The Declaration of Independence.

According to the Declaration, what is the source of our fundamental rights?

The Declaration states that people are "endowed by their Creator" with certain unalienable rights.

What does the term "unalienable rights" mean?

Rights that are inherent to every person and cannot be taken away, sold, or transferred to another person.

What are the three unalienable rights specifically listed in the Declaration of Independence?

Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

According to the Declaration of Independence, what is the purpose of government?

To secure the unalienable rights of the people.