Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence, a foundational document in American history, was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson. He was selected to draft the document by the Second Continental Congress in June 1776, reflecting his eloquence and commitment to the principles of individual liberty and self-governance. Jefferson's writing articulated the colonies' desire to break free from British rule, asserting that all men are created equal and possess certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

While George Washington, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin played significant roles in the American Revolution and in shaping the new nation, they did not write the Declaration. Washington served as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, Adams was a leading advocate for independence and helped to edit the document, and Franklin contributed to the revolutionary cause in various ways, including diplomatic efforts. However, it was Jefferson's vision and pen that ultimately captured the aspirations for independence in the Declaration itself.