Committee of Five Drafts Declaration of Independence
June 11th, 1776
June 11th, 1776
How Long Ago?
248 years, 9 months, 4 days ago
Location
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
American Revolutionary War
People
- Thomas Jefferson
- John Adams
- Benjamin Franklin
- Roger Sherman
- Robert R. Livingston
Links & References
- Continental Congress
- Thomas Jefferson
- John Adams
- Benjamin Franklin
- Roger Sherman
- Robert R. Livingston
- Committee of Five
- United States Declaration of Independence
Tags
Committee of Five Drafts Declaration of Independence
The Continental Congress appointed Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston to a committee tasked with drafting a declaration of independence. This significant assignment symbolized a collective move towards asserting the colonies' intent to separate from British rule, reflecting a growing desire for self-determination. The group of distinguished individuals was chosen for their political influence, writing skills, and diverse perspectives, setting the stage for an enduring document that would articulate the American colonies' aspirations for freedom.
Committee of Five drafted independence declaration
Thomas Jefferson primarily authored the document
Event catalyzed American Revolutionary sentiments
Declaration influenced future democratic movements
What Happened?
The Continental Congress, convened in Philadelphia in the spring of 1776, was facing increasing pressures from both the British government and its own constituents. Escalating conflicts and military confrontations with British troops made the prospect of independence a topic of urgent debate. On June 11, 1776, this body appointed a distinguished Committee of Five to draft a formal declaration announcing the colonies' intent to separate from Britain. The committee comprised some of the most influential figures of the time: Thomas Jefferson, a young yet accomplished writer; John Adams, a leading advocate for independence; Benjamin Franklin, an esteemed diplomat and thinker; Roger Sherman, a pragmatic politician; and Robert R. Livingston, a knowledgeable lawyer and statesman.Each member of the committee brought unique perspectives and skills to the task at hand, and Thomas Jefferson was selected to pen the initial draft due to his eloquent style and philosophical insights. Their charge was not merely to declare independence but to articulate the fundamental principles behind this momentous decision, capturing the ideals of liberty and the rights of individuals. The completion of the draft would eventually lead to the formal adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, encapsulating the colonies' aspirations and unresolved grievances against the British crown.
Why Does it Matter?
The appointment of the Committee of Five is particularly interesting because it marked the beginning of a formal declaration of independence, which would resonate through history as a profound statement of self-governance and democratic ideals. The Declaration of Independence is often viewed as a revolutionary document that inspired other nations and social movements to pursue their own liberties. Its principles have continued to shape democratic thought and practice around the world.
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