On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration of Independence, drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson. This document proclaimed the colonies' independence from British rule and outlined the philosophical foundations of the new nation.

The Declaration articulated revolutionary principles including natural rights, popular sovereignty, and the right of revolution. It stated that "all men are created equal" and are endowed with "unalienable Rights" including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."