Importance of the Declaration of Independence

[jasuwi]

The Declaration of Independence not only declared that the Thirteen English Colonies should be a free and independent nation, but it set forth ideals that were revolutionary in that day, and are still believed in by Americans today. Wood says that the Declaration of Independence set forth a philosophy of human rights that could be applied world wide. “It was essential in giving the American Revolution a universal appeal.” 57

[nicolesmith]

The Declaration of Independence was important because it gave Americans a sense of freedom and the ability to stand away from another country and have the opportunity to be Americans in America. “Americans saw themselves striving not only to make themselves free, but also to bring freedom to the whole world,” (pg. 47). Americans were exhausted when it came to the English government and arrogance.
The Declaration of Independence was a brilliant expression of Enlightenment ideals. These ideals are still evident in Americans today as well. However, there was nothing mentioned about slavery in the Declaration, and this was a national issue because nearly all white Americans benefited directly or indirectly from some form of slavery. By 1776 American leaders realized that the continuation of slavery went against everything the Revolution was about.
“The Declaration of Independence set forth a philosophy of human rights that could be applied not only to Americans, but also to people everywhere. It was essential in giving the American Revolution a universal appeal,” (pg. 57).