1. The Declaration of Independence “The herald of the new political age.” - July 4, 1776
2. Thomas Jefferson Lived from 1743- July 4, 1826. Wrote the first draft of the declaration at 33. President for eight years from 1801-1809. Governor of Virginia from 1779 to 1781. “Man of the People” Influenced by Milton and Locke Assisted by Adams and Franklin
3. Congress The declaration committee Sent to Congress on June 28, 1776 Congress was satisfied with declaration Declaration of Independence was released on July 4, 1776.
4. Significance of the Declaration Harsh attack on the King and Britain December 23, 1775 - King George III issues a royal proclamation to take effect in March of 1776. 5 different sections Climax: "the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States."
5. Section Three 18 charges against George III Irony: Parliament, not King. Controversy: “All men are created equal.”
6. Preamble George Mason 3 things: Establishes that all men have rights Government is established to secure those rights If the government interferes- abolish/break ties
7. Democracy Set us apart from Great Britain Own basis of a judicial system Democracy rather than a monarchy
8. Bibliography 2004 Encyclopedia Americana (2004 ed., Vol. 16, 1-9) 2004 Encyclopedia Americana (2004 ed., Vol. 8, 589-593) Mount, Steve. "Constitutional Topic: The Declaration of Independence." USConstitution.net. 30 Nov 2001. http://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_mlaw.html (29 Aug 2009)<http://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_decl.html> “About the White House: Presidents”, Thomas Jefferson, <http://www.whitehouse.gov/about/presidents/thomasjefferson/>
