Who authored the Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson. He was appointed as the principal author by the Continental Congress in 1776, tasked with drafting a formal statement to declare the American colonies' separation from British rule. Jefferson's eloquent writing captured the ideals of liberty, equality, and the social contract, which are central to the document's significance. His phrasing, particularly the famous assertion that "all men are created equal," encapsulates the revolutionary sentiments of the time.

While other key figures, like John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, were also influential in the independence movement and contributed to discussions around the document, it was Jefferson’s words that became the enduring symbol of American ideals. George Washington, as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, played a crucial role in the Revolutionary War but was not involved in writing the Declaration. Thus, the recognition of Jefferson as the author underscores his pivotal role in shaping the nation's founding principles.