The Formal Declaration of Separation & Its Signers

Core Concepts

Focuses on the concluding section of the Declaration, which formally dissolves ties with Great Britain, and highlights the profound personal commitment and risk taken by the 56 men who signed the document.

The Formal Declaration of Separation & Its Signers

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What crime were the signers of the Declaration of Independence committing against Great Britain?

Treason, which was punishable by hanging.

How many delegates signed the Declaration of Independence?

56.

Who famously remarked, "We must, indeed, all hang together or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately"?

Benjamin Franklin, emphasizing the unity and grave danger the signers faced.

The signers appealed to a higher power for support, as shown in what phrase from the final sentence?

"with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence."

What do the final paragraphs of the Declaration of Independence officially do?

They formally declare that the colonies are, and have a right to be, "Free and Independent States."

By declaring independence, what specific powers did the new "Free and Independent States" claim?

The full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and do all other acts that independent states may do.

What relationship with the British Crown was "totally dissolved" by the Declaration?

All political connection between the American states and Great Britain.

In the famous final sentence, what three things did the signers mutually pledge to each other?

"our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."

Who was the president of the Second Continental Congress and the first to sign the Declaration?

John Hancock of Massachusetts.

The signatures on the United States Declaration of Independence, highlighting John Hancock's prominent, large, and centrally placed signature at the top of the signers' section.

Why is John Hancock's signature on the document so famous?

It is exceptionally large and centered. Legend says he signed it that way so King George III could read it without his spectacles.

The Formal Declaration of Separation & Its Signers

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