declaration of independence

An in-depth look at the leaders, battles, institutions, and ideals that contributed to the creation of the Declaration of Independence.

The men who signed the Declaration of Independence knew they were taking a great risk. If the British triumphed in the upcoming Revolutionary War, they would probably be hanged. That didn't stop them. Who were these brave men? Some remain famous even to this day, such as Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, John Hancock, and perhaps above all, Thomas Jefferson. He was the man who drafted the Declaration of Independence. Others have been largely forgotten. This book looks at the lives of all 56 signers. Read about Caesar Rodney, who got out of his sickbed and rode all night to cast the deciding vote for independence for his Delaware delegation. Thomas Nelson Jr., who had a one-man version of the Boston Tea Party. George Wythe, murdered by a scheming grand-nephew.

Every year more than a million people troop into the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C. to see the Declaration of Independence. It is perhaps this country's most famous document. Its 56 signers knew they were risking their lives by putting their names on it. But they believed so strongly in the cause of independence that they were willing to take the risk. Today's viewers may not be aware of the trials and tribulations that the document itself went through before arriving at its permanent home in 1952. It survived invasions, environmental dangers, even the threat of bombing. Now it serves as a constant reminder of the ideals that the United States is based on.

"Step back in time to the birth of America and meet the real-life rebels who made this country free! On a hot summer day near Philadelphia in 1776, Thomas Jefferson sat at his desk and wrote furiously until early the next morning. He was drafting the Declaration of Independence, a document that would sever this country's ties with Britain and announce a new nation--The United States of America. Colonists were willing to risk their lives for freedom, and the Declaration of Independence made that official. Discover the true story of one of the most radical and uplifting documents in history and follow the action that fueled the Revolutionary War"--Provided by publisher.

"There are many events and ideas to commemorate on the Fourth of July, such as our freedom and the signing of the Declaration of Independence...right? Not exactly! Many people are surprised to learn that the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 2, 1776, not July 4"--Amazon.

Presents the Declaration of Independence in both its original version and in a translated version using everyday language; and describes the events that led to the creation of the document and its significance through history.

Traces the history of the Declaration of Independence, the statement by which the United States broke free from British rule, and discusses its significance to the people of the United States.

Traces the origins of the Declaration of Independence, exploring the document's conception, drafting, ratification, and influence on the American people and government.

Introduces the history of the Declaration of Independence through primary sources.

This founding father was the principal author of the document that would free the United States from Great Britain. He became one of the most influential presidents of the new nation. In this text, Jefferson's life and his greatest works are examined alongside the important historical events that influenced him. Students will analyze Jefferson's writings in order to understand their contemporary influence as well as their lasting influence today.