7.2 Thomas Jefferson's Declaration of Independence and Other Works

The Declaration of Independence, a cornerstone of American democracy, was rooted in Enlightenment philosophy. It championed natural rights, social contract theory, and the right to revolt against tyranny. These ideas shaped the new nation's identity and values.

Thomas Jefferson, the primary author, drew from thinkers like Locke and Montesquieu. His words not only declared independence but also laid the groundwork for future democratic movements and inspired revolutions worldwide. Jefferson's legacy continues to influence American politics today.

Philosophical and Political Foundations

Principles of the Declaration

Top images from around the web for Principles of the Declaration

• 

  The Declaration of Independence | Living Documents View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Author Introduction-Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) – American Literature I: An Anthology of Texts ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  American literature - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Declaration of Independence | Living Documents View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Author Introduction-Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) – American Literature I: An Anthology of Texts ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Principles of the Declaration

• 

  The Declaration of Independence | Living Documents View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Author Introduction-Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) – American Literature I: An Anthology of Texts ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  American literature - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Declaration of Independence | Living Documents View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Author Introduction-Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) – American Literature I: An Anthology of Texts ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Natural rights philosophy underpinned fundamental human entitlements (life, liberty, pursuit of happiness) emphasized equality among all men
• Social contract theory posited government power derived from consent of governed fostered democratic ideals
• Right of revolution justified altering or abolishing oppressive governments empowered citizens
• List of grievances against King George III detailed colonial complaints (taxation without representation, quartering of soldiers, trade restrictions)
• Separation from Great Britain formally declared United States as free and independent states marked birth of new nation

Jefferson's role and significance

• Committee of Five appointed Jefferson as primary author collaborated with John Adams and Benjamin Franklin
• Jefferson's writing process incorporated existing documents and ideas underwent multiple drafts and revisions
• Declaration's significance announced independence to world inspired future democratic movements laid foundation for U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights

Enlightenment Influence and Legacy

Enlightenment influence on Jefferson

• Key Enlightenment thinkers shaped Jefferson's philosophy (John Locke, Montesquieu, Voltaire)
• Enlightenment concepts permeated Jefferson's works emphasized reason, individual rights, separation of church and state, limited government
• Jefferson's views on education and progress advocated public education promoted belief in human perfectibility

Impact on American democracy

• Jeffersonian democracy championed individual liberty favored decentralized government promoted agrarian ideals
• Influence on political parties led to formation of Democratic-Republican Party
• Jefferson's other significant writings included Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom and Notes on the State of Virginia
• Legacy in American politics expanded voting rights established concept of peaceful transfer of power
• Global impact inspired other independence movements provided model for democratic constitutions worldwide