What was the decplaration of independence? how is it historically significant? what did it do?

Question

what were the contents?
how did the enlghtment influence it?
why is it the foundation of our political philosophy?

Answer 1

The Declaration of Independence was a statement of American independence from Great Britain. When it was approved by the Continental Congress on July 4,1776 the United States became an independent nation.

Thomas Jefferson wrote the document, citing the abuses of the British king (George III) and his government. Jefferson uses the writings of John Locke to make his points, especially the about the unalienable rights of people (life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness).

Many of the aspects of the Declaration of Independence are found in the Constitution, as the Bill of Rights is meant to protect our citizens from similiar abuses.

Answer 2

Read it.