Topic

The topics of “The Declaration of Independence” are closely related to the context of when the Declaration was issued. The legal document was drafted during the American Revolutionary War, when thirteen North American colonies decided to proclaim independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain.

Consequently, the text focuses on themes like equality, legitimacy, tyranny, freedom and independe…

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Equality and legitimacy

The beginning of the speech - which is also its best-known part - focuses on equality and the legitimacy of government, explaining both theoretical concepts.

On the topic of equality, the text notes: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness…” (ll. 13-16). The main idea is that all people are equal in the eyes of God and that certain rights are God-given and cannot be taken away by men or governments. 

The topic of legitimacy is explored in relation to King George III of Great Britain and to the people of the North Ameri…

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Freedom and independence

In light of the fact that the British rule instituted oppressive measures against the colonies and of the fact that the British ignored the colonies’ demands (ll. 135-145), the thirteen North American colonies decided that they have the legitimate right to declare independence: “We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.” (ll. 145-148); “…solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that t…