We hold these truths to be self-evident

The reader may wonder who "WE" are who hold these truths. One obvious answer is "WE, therefore, the representatives of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, in GENERAL CONGRESS, assembled" (line 65). Since the Representatives of the United States of America have been duly elected by the American people, it is not only they who hold these truths, but the people of the United States, as well.

Close