Declaration of Independence Beliefs

We hold these truths to be self-evident . . . We think this is true . . . that all men are created equal That white men who own property are equally able to rule

that all men are endowed by their Creator that all men are endowed by their Creator. . . with certain unalienable Rights These men have rights that cannot be taken away

that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. . . These rights include life, freedom, and the right to earn money by owning property. . .

Jefferson’s original draft intended to remove slavery

That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men To keep these rights safe. . . Governments are instituted among Men People create governments

deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, Governments get their power from the people; people choose their own government

We, therefore. publish and declare. that these United Colonies are We, therefore . . . publish and declare . . . that these United Colonies are . . . free and Independent States

. . we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor