The Declaration of Independence: More Than Just a Birthday

Most Americans recognize July 4th as the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted, marking the birth of the United States. But beyond the fireworks and barbecues, how much do we really know about this pivotal document and the process behind its creation?

The Committee of Five

While Thomas Jefferson is often credited as the sole author of the Declaration of Independence, the task was initially assigned to a committee of five influential figures:

• Robert Livingston
• Roger Sherman
• Benjamin Franklin
• John Adams
• Thomas Jefferson

It was John Adams who proposed including the young Thomas Jefferson, recognizing his writing skills and the importance of having a representative from the influential Virginia Delegation. This highlights the collaborative nature of the document's creation, a detail often overlooked.

Borrowed Words and Congressional Edits

Jefferson, while a gifted writer, drew inspiration from other sources, subtly tweaking existing phrases and ideas. Furthermore, the initial draft underwent significant revisions by the Continental Congress. For two days, Jefferson reportedly “sat and fumed” as his words were scrutinized and debated.

The most significant alteration was the removal of a passage condemning King George III for his role in the slave trade and for preventing America from abolishing slavery. This deletion exposes a profound contradiction at the heart of the Declaration: the proclamation of liberty and equality while simultaneously upholding the institution of slavery.

The Uncomfortable Truth About Slavery

The removal of the passage on slavery raises a crucial question: How could the Founding Fathers, in good conscience, declare “all men are created equal” while perpetuating a system that denied basic human rights to enslaved people? This hypocrisy would eventually fuel the Civil War and continues to be a subject of national debate.

The Declaration of Independence, therefore, is not simply a historical document to be celebrated uncritically. It is a complex and nuanced text that reflects the ideals and contradictions of its time. Understanding the lesser-known facts surrounding its creation allows for a more complete and honest assessment of American history.

Key Takeaways

• The Declaration was a collaborative effort, not solely the work of Thomas Jefferson.
• Jefferson borrowed ideas and phrases from other writers.
• The Continental Congress significantly edited Jefferson's draft.
• The removal of the passage on slavery highlights the hypocrisy of the era.
• The Declaration's legacy is intertwined with the ongoing struggle for equality.

By exploring these often-overlooked aspects of the Declaration of Independence, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of American history and the ongoing pursuit of its founding ideals.