The event in history known as the “Declaration of Independence” refers to the formal declaration by the Thirteen Colonies of North America, asserting their independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. This declaration marked the birth of the United States of America as a sovereign nation. It was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.

The document itself, commonly referred to as the Declaration of Independence, was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, with input and revisions from other members of the Continental Congress. It outlined the colonists’ grievances against King George III, expressed the principles of individual rights and self-government, and declared the colonies’ intention to separate from British rule.