Who is credited with writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776?

The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, is primarily credited to Thomas Jefferson. He served as the principal author of this foundational document, articulating the colonies' intention to separate from British rule and outlining the philosophical underpinnings of individual rights and government. Jefferson's eloquent writing captured the sentiments and aspirations of the American colonies during a time of significant political upheaval. His choice of language and the articulation of the principles of liberty and equality have had a lasting impact on both the United States and various democratic movements worldwide. The other figures mentioned were influential in their own right but did not play the same direct role in authoring the Declaration. James Madison, for example, is recognized as the "Father of the Constitution," while Benjamin Franklin was a key diplomat and helped promote the idea of independence. John Adams, although he was a strong advocate for independence and played a crucial role in supporting Jefferson, was not the primary writer of the document.