The Declaration of Independence sets out the case for the thirteen American colonies to separate from Great Britain. Its opening argument presents government as deriving legitimate authority from the consent of the governed and states that people possess inherent rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It argues that when a government persistently violates these purposes, the people may alter or abolish it and establish a new political order.

The document then lists grievances against King George III, alleging interference with colonial government, justice, trade and representative institutions, among other complaints. These charges are presented as evidence that reconciliation is no longer possible. The concluding section declares the colonies to be free and independent states, no longer owing allegiance to the British Crown. Thomas Jefferson prepared the principal draft, which was revised by other members of the Committee of Five and by the Continental Congress before its adoption on 4 July 1776.