What was the primary purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

The primary purpose of the Declaration of Independence was to announce independence from Great Britain. This historic document was drafted in 1776 by Thomas Jefferson and other members of the Continental Congress as a formal statement articulating the colonies' intent to separate from British rule.

By declaring independence, the colonists sought to justify their decision to break away from a government they felt was infringing on their rights and freedoms. The Declaration outlined grievances against King George III, emphasizing philosophical ideals such as the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This act of declaring independence was crucial in rallying support among the colonies and garnering international recognition for their cause.

While the Declaration touches on themes that would eventually influence the establishment of the U.S. government and its laws, as well as the broader war effort against Britain, its central purpose was to formally announce their independence and proclaim the colonies' desire to govern themselves.