Fact Finder - History

The American Revolution reached a formal turning point on July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. This document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, declared the thirteen American colonies to be 'Free and Independent States' and no longer part of the British Empire. It famously articulated the Enlightenment principles that 'all men are created equal' and possess unalienable rights to 'Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.' The revolution was sparked by grievances over 'taxation without representation' and restricted trade. The subsequent victory of the American forces, aided by France, led to the creation of the first modern democratic republic. This event inspired subsequent independence movements globally and established the U.S. Constitution as a model for governing by the consent of the people, rather than by hereditary monarchy.