The Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence is one of our nation's most important founding documents, expressing the basic purposes of self-government, limited constitutionalism, and what it means to be an American.  Below one can read the original text, as well as consult three annotated versions explaining the Declaration's basic principles, its historical context, and a glossary of terms.
Declaration of Independence

Full Text of the Declaration of Independence
Annotated Versions of the Declaration:

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