The Declaration of Independence and Its Signers

Background to the Declaration of Independence After England won the French and Indian War, King George III demanded control over the colonies King George and Parliament felt the colonists should bear some of the costs and administration of the areas acquired from France. Parliament passed several new acts designed to shift to the Americans some of the cost of defense

Background to the Declaration of Independence Stamp Act: required that all printed materials be stamped to indicate that tax had been paid Colonists were angered over the taxes “No taxation without representation” Stamp Act was repealed in 1766 …things aren’t over though!

Why Did the Declaration of Independence Happen? Boston Massacre (1770) Boston Tea Party (1773) Battles of Lexington and Concord (1775)

Second Continental Congress 1775-1776 Convened May 19, 1775 George Washington appointed Commander in Chief of the Continental Forces Appointed 5 men to write a declaration stating the colonies intent and reasons for independence June 1775 56 delegates met and debated, each colony had one vote Deliberated for one year January 1776 Common Sense by Thomas Paine explained why there should be independence to the public

Resolution of Differences Second Continental Congress drafted the Declaration of Independence. Approved for signature July 2 July 4 1776 Declaration written by Thomas Jefferson was signed, John Hancock signed first with the largest signature Severed ties with Great Britain

Declaration of Independence Thomas Jefferson understood what the actions entailed Wanted to make sure the document explained why the colonists wanted to separate The second paragraph lays down the philosophy for the decision. “All men are equal” Government was to protect “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” fundamental rights of all When the government failed to do so, citizens have a right to overthrow it Overthrow is not for trivial reasons, but when treatment becomes “absolute despotism”

List of Grievances that were Improper Actions by the King Then comes 27 complains the colonies have against the king… we will look at these.

Results from the Declaration of Independence 86 Changes were made 500 words were taken out 1,337 words were included 18 signers were under the age of 40 Three were in their 20s Half of the 56 signers were judges and lawyers 11 were merchants 9 were land owners and farmers 12 were doctors, ministers and politicians