Declaration of Independence

Why is the Declaration of Independence so important?

It gave America independence, put forth the idea that all men were created equal, and gave people the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

What does "all men are created equal" mean?

It means that all white men were political equals, but does not apply to women, Native Americans, or American-American slaves.

Where was it written and approved?

Philidelphia

What did the King did to annoy colonists?

Stamp Act, Townshend Acts, Intolerable Acts, taxation without representation, trying colonists in British courts, and numerous others.

From whom do governments receive their powers?

The government received their powers from the people.

What is the purpose of any good government?

The purpose of any good government is to give its people their unalienable rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Who wrote it?

Thomas Jefferson

When was it approved and signed?

July 2, 1776 and July 4, 1776