Which document formally declared the colonies' independence from British rule?

Which document formally declared the colonies' independence from British rule?

• A. The Constitution
• B. The Federalist Papers
• C. The Declaration of Independence
• D. The Bill of Rights

Answer: (C)

The Declaration of Independence is the document that formally declared the colonies' independence from British rule. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, it articulates the colonies' grievances against King George III and sets forth the philosophical justification for their separation from Britain. This foundational document asserts the principles of natural rights, emphasizing that people have the right to alter or abolish a government that fails to protect their rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Its adoption marked the formal break from British authority, establishing the United States as an independent nation. In contrast, the other options serve different purposes. The Constitution provides the framework for the U.S. government and was created later, in 1787. The Federalist Papers are a series of essays that promote the ratification of the Constitution, while the Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, ensuring individual liberties and rights but does not pertain to the declaration of independence itself.

The Declaration of Independence is the document that formally declared the colonies' independence from British rule. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, it articulates the colonies' grievances against King George III and sets forth the philosophical justification for their separation from Britain. This foundational document asserts the principles of natural rights, emphasizing that people have the right to alter or abolish a government that fails to protect their rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Its adoption marked the formal break from British authority, establishing the United States as an independent nation.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes. The Constitution provides the framework for the U.S. government and was created later, in 1787. The Federalist Papers are a series of essays that promote the ratification of the Constitution, while the Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, ensuring individual liberties and rights but does not pertain to the declaration of independence itself.