In June 1776, the Continental Congress formed a drafting committee to compose a “common sense” explanation, in “terms so plain and firm, as to command assent” for why the American colonies should dissolve all political connection with Great Britain. Not all of the delegates to the Continental Congress, like the people they represented, wanted to become independent from Great Britian. Thomas Jefferson, the main author, wrote that “all men are created equal” and outlined the foundational principles of a new American nation.

What are these foundational principles and what have they meant to Americans and other peoples living under the burden of oppression and ignorance?

How has the Declaration of Independence inspired Americans and others to overturn the power of tyrants and to fight for equality?

In this presentation, historical and legal scholar Dr. David Adler will discuss the Declaration of Independence and what it has meant to the United States and to the world.