Lasheika Grayson

Declaration of Independence

Document Analysis

1. What type of document is this?

The Declaration of Independence is a formal statement declaring the freedom and independence of the
thirteen American colonies from British rule. It’s considered one of the most significant documents in
American history.

2. Who is the author of the document ?

Thomas Jefferson is recognized as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence.

3. Who is the audience or intended recipient of the document?

The primary audience for the Declaration of Independence was the British government and King George
III. Additionally, it was aimed at the colonists and the international community to explain the reasons
behind the colonies’ decision to separate from British rule.

4. List three things the author said that you think are important?

1. “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.” - This phrase emphasizes the inherent and equal rights of all individuals, a fundamental
principle of human rights and equality.

2 “ O That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers
from the consent of the governed.” - It articulates the purpose of government: to protect and uphold
the rights of the people and highlights the idea of popular sovereignty.

3.“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.” - This section asserts the right to
revolution when a government fails to protect the rights of its citizens, emphasizing the idea of the
people’s right to change or replace a government that oppresses them.

5. Why do you think this document was written?

The Declaration of Independence was written to formally declare the American colonies’ separation
from British rule and to articulate the reasons behind this decision. It aimed to justify this separation by
highlighting the grievances against the British government, asserting natural rights, and asserting the
legitimacy of self-governance. Additionally, it served to garner support both domestically and
internationally for the colonists’ cause.

6. What evidence in the document helps you know why it was written? Quote from the document.

“We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled,
appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by
Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United
Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States…”

7. List two things the document tells you about life in America at the time it was written?

1. Colonial Grievances: The document highlights the grievances the colonies had against the British
government, showcasing issues like taxation without representation, interference in local governance,
and the imposition of unfair laws.

2. Desire for Self-Governance: It underscores the desire of the colonies for self-governance and
autonomy, emphasizing the importance of governing themselves and making decisions about their own
future.

8. Write a question to the author that is left unanswered by the document:

“Thomas Jefferson, while the Declaration of Independence outlined the grievances against British rule,
what specific strategies or plans did you envision for building a new government and ensuring the
stability and success of the newly independent United States?”