The Declaration of Independence was written for several key reasons:
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Assertion of Rights: It articulated the belief that all individuals possess unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, establishing a moral foundation for independence.
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Grievances Against British Rule: The document listed specific complaints against King George III and British Parliament, such as taxation without representation, violation of colonial self-governance, and lack of fair trial, highlighting the injustices faced by the colonists.
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Desire for Self-Governance: It expressed the colonists’ desire to establish their own government that would be accountable to the people, asserting the principle of consent of the governed.
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Call for Unity: The Declaration aimed to unify the thirteen colonies in their struggle for independence, fostering a sense of shared purpose and collective identity among the colonies.