Thomas Jefferson

Declaration of

Independence

BiographyThomas Jefferson was

born in Virginia, in 1743.He studied law, became

a horseman and a competent violinist

He was a philosopher, scientist, farmer, architect, and inventor.

Book: Notes on the State of Virginia (1785.)

Biography Video

Thomas Jefferson

wanted John

Adams to draft the

Declaration of

Independence. “I

will not,” said

Adams. “What can

be your reasons?”

Jefferson asked.

“You can write ten

times better than I

can.” “Well” said

Jefferson, “if you

are decided, I will

do as well as I

can.”

The Declaration of Independence

Video of the Declaration of Independence

Interpretation Change of perspective: Laws of

Nature and Nature’s God in favor of people, not kings.

Declaration of the basis of modern rights: Equality, Life, Liberty, and pursuit of happiness.

Change of perspective in government: Government for the people, not viceversa.

Criticism towards the monarchical system.

There are references to Religion (God, The Divine Providence.)

Very well structured, simple and clear.

ConclusionThe Declaration of

Independence was the cornerstone of the contemporary understanding of Human Rights.

Despite the simplicity in structure and language of the Declaration of Independence, the most important fact is what it conveys.