Founding Documents
The Declaration of Independence
Adopted on July 4, 1776, the Declaration announced the thirteen colonies’ separation from British rule. Read it below in the language that works best for you.
From the Declaration
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
Choose a language
- Understanding the DeclarationA plain-language guide to its key sections and why they still matter.
- Read the originalView the official engrossed text at the National Archives.
Explore more of America’s founding charters.