1. The Declaration of Independence
Jefferson’s jewel

2. Philosophy Based on the ideas of John Locke. 3 parts:
1. (a) “All men are created equal and are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
(b) “To secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their power from the consent of the governed.”

3. © “Whenever the government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute a new government.”
2. List of grievances.
3. Conclusion. “these united colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states.

4. Significance of the D of I
Elevated the struggle into a war for independence.
Encouraged France and Spain to assist the colonists.
Made possible the 1778 alliance between France and US.
A source of inspiration throughout history in both the USA and the world.