The Declaration of Independence(Part I of II Power Point)

A ResolutionIn June 1776, Richard Henry Lee (Virginia) proposed to the Continental Congress that they declare independence; “these United colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states.”The Congress approved and on July 2, the colonies officially broke from Great Britain.

A committee was formed to prepare a written declarationBen Franklin: PennsylvaniaRoger Sherman: Connecticut Thomas Jefferson: VirginiaJohn Adams: MassachusettsRoger Livingston: New York

The Committee asks Thomas Jefferson to write the draft.Much debate and some editing of his work. On July 4, Congress approved the final draft.All 56 delegates signed it.

The 4 Parts The Preamble: Describe the source of basic rights that Americans have; they are not derived from the people, they come from a higher power.Statement of purpose: Defines and explains unalienable rights, that cannot be taken away( Natural Rights)Specific complaints, 27 grievances towards King George IIIColonists desire to separate (the first time that United States of America is used).

The End