The Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence was the first ever document to cement equality into the founding principles of a nation. It helped to bring the colonies together during a national crisis, but it was by no means perfect.

For those taking the U.S. Citizenship test, knowing and understanding the importance of the Declaration of Independence is essential.

In the late 1770s, U.S. patriots banded together to declare independence from Great Britain. But why did they want their independence and what kind of country did they want the United States to be?

Thomas Jefferson described the Declaration of Independence as expressing the “American mind,” drawing on political and philosophical traditions that influenced the nation’s formation. Explore the role of philosophy in the foundation of a new nation.

We explore Elbridge Gerry's pivotal role as a signer of the Declaration of Independence and his early contributions to the founding of the United States.

We explore the life of John Adams, the combative and principled Massachusetts lawyer who helped ignite the American Revolution and shape the foundation of a new nation. From drafting the Declaration of Independence to serving as the second President of the United States.

We explore the life of Benjamin Franklin, a printer, inventor, and diplomat whose wit, scientific curiosity, and political influence helped shape the birth of the United States. He was part of the team who negotiated the Treaty of Paris and signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

We explore the career of Samuel Adams, a Boston patriot who led resistance against the British, signed the Declaration, and governed Massachusetts.

We trace George Washington’s path from surveyor to commander-in-chief, examine his pivotal role in the Constitutional Convention, and reflect on his leadership as the nation's first president.

The Founding Fathers were American patriots who helped create a nation, but there are some things you might not know about them...