1. The Declaration of Independence and Its Signers

2. 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

3. 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Stamp Act was repealed in 1766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!

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

5. 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 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

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

7. 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”

8. 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.

9. 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