Declaration Of Independence

key document of the American Revolution

tied to the Fourth Of July

http://usinfo.state.gov/usa/infousa/facts/democrac/part1.htm

first draft says in part: We hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable: that all men are created equal and independent; that from that equal creation they derive rights inherent and inalienable (Natural Law?), among which are the preservation of life, and liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, Government-s are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.