Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson is recognized as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted on July 4, 1776. His role was crucial because he articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and framed the philosophical foundation for independence, emphasizing ideas about individual rights and government by consent. Jefferson’s eloquent writing not only captured the aspirations of the American people for liberty and self-governance but also influenced the revolutionary sentiment during that time.

For context, while George Washington played a significant role as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army and James Madison is known as the "Father of the Constitution" for his pivotal role in drafting that document, neither was directly involved in writing the Declaration. Benjamin Franklin was instrumental in the independence movement and served on the committee to draft the Declaration, but it was Jefferson who composed the original text.