The Declaration of Independence was primarily written by Thomas Jefferson in June 1776. Jefferson was chosen to draft the document because of his eloquence and political philosophy, influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke
. After Jefferson completed the initial draft, it was reviewed and edited by a committee known as the Committee of Five, which included John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston. Adams and Franklin made significant contributions by suggesting revisions and improving the clarity and persuasive power of the text
. The draft then went to the Continental Congress, where further revisions were made before the Declaration was officially adopted on July 4, 1776
. Thus, while Jefferson was the principal author, the final Declaration was a collaborative effort involving several key figures of the American Revolution
. In summary:
- Primary author: Thomas Jefferson
- Committee members who contributed: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston
- Final approval: Continental Congress on July 4, 1776
