What did the Declaration of Independence accomplish?

The Declaration of Independence is primarily known for announcing the American colonies' separation from Great Britain. Drafted in 1776, it marked a pivotal moment in history as the colonies sought to assert their rights to self-govern and reject British rule. This document articulated the philosophical underpinnings of independence, emphasizing unalienable rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

While other documents such as the Constitution and the Bill of Rights address governance or the rights of citizens, the Declaration itself is centered on the act of declaring that the colonies were no longer subject to British authority, thus laying the foundation for the development of the United States as an independent nation.