The Declaration of Independence

1. The Declaration of Independence

2. “Common Sense” • In January 1776, the pamphlet “Common Sense”, written by Thomas Paine is published. • He said things that were not new, but they were written in a way that appealed to the lower and middle class. • Paine wanted each colony to declare its independence, and form a Republican government.

3. “Common Sense” • Becoming a Republican government would be a model for the rest of the world. • He asserts that America has a special role in the world. • Paine states all of these things in a way that mocks the British.

4. Declaring Independence • On June 7, 1776 Richard Henry Lee (statesman from VA) introduces legislature calling on colonies to declare their independence. • They debate for one month.

5. Declaring Independence • During the month long debate the Committees of Correspondence wants a government to be drawn out. • Another committee is set up to draw up the Declaration of Independence. • This committee is made up of John Adams, Ben Franklin, Roger Sherman (CT), Robert Livingston (NY).

6. Declaring Independence • From June 16th to June 27th Jefferson worked on the draft on the Dec. • He turns it over to the other members, who make changes, then it is turned over to the Committees of Correspondence (who makes changes). • In all, 86 changes are made, and Jefferson is not happy.

7. Declaring Independence • On July 2nd, the Committees of Correspondence is ready to vote. • 12 of the 13 colonies vote (NY does not) and all 12 vote unanimously in favor of independence. • 2 days later on the 4th, they are still making changes to Jefferson’s draft.

8. Declaring Independence • So actually, July 2nd is the day when we declared our Independence, it is adopted on July 4th. • The Declaration of Independence is divided into 3 parts.

9. 3 Parts of the Declaration • 1st Part: The theoretical justification for independence. • This part is also influenced by John Locke’s idea of Natural Rights; Life, Liberty, and Property. • It is also based on Locke’s idea of Social Contract; people in society create a government to protect their rights.

10. 3 Parts of the Declaration • 2nd Part: States all the grievances about the British (including the Acts, etc.). • Jefferson places all of the blame for this on the king. • The king was to blame for breaking the final links to the colonies.

11. 3 Parts of the Declaration • 3rd Part: Restatement of Richard Henry Lee’s Statement of Independence. • The delegates then sign and pledge themselves to each other. • They would now be targeted for treason by the British officials if they were not successful.