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The intended audience of “The Declaration of Independence” was very broad, including the British Empire, King George III, and the American people.

Many parts of the document target a global audience, as indicated by the following references: “a decent respect to the opinions of mankind” (l. 10), “let Facts be submitted to a candid world” (l. 42), and “do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do” (ll. 161-162). This is because the thirteen colonies wanted their independence to be acknowledged by other states as quickly as possible, and to demonstrate that their country had the same legitimacy as other internationally recognized nations.

King George III and the government of the British Empire are also specifically targeted. The writers openly accuse them of oppression and tyranny: “The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations” (ll. 38-40); “…they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain…” (ll. 155-158)

Moreover, the text includes references to the general British audience, accusing them of ignoring the grievances of ...