Have you ever read the Declaration of Independence?

Question

If not then here is your chance. If you have here is another chance to refresh your memory.



The Declaration of Independence of the Thirteen Colonies
In CONGRESS, July 4, 1776

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,


When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

—That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,

—That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

Answer 1

I *love* this document, and think this is some of the most powerful writing ever penned. I especially love this part: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. Self-evident! You know, any fool can see this! :)

Did you know that Thomas Jefferson didn't want to write this document? John Adams and Ben Franklin tricked him into it because he was younger and they didn't want to do it. His wife, Abigail, convinced him to do his best work despite his annoyance with the two codgers. I think he did an admirable job.

Happy Fourth,
~Tia~

Answer 2

O'say can you see, by the dawns early light.
What so proudly we hailed at the twilights last gleaming.
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous night.
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming.
And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air.
Gave proof through the nite that are flag was still there.
O'say does that star spangled banner yet wave.
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Answer 3

I taught history for the Homework Help room on AOL. I often had to simplfy the Constitution. It is an amazing document and I wish more students felt that way.

Answer 4

Yes.

Answer 5

I have, as well as the Constitution. It's only to our benefit to know the history of our country.

Answer 6

Yes, I have.

Answer 7

Read it - heck, had to memorize it in school!