Which document declared the independence of the United States?

The Declaration of Independence is the document that proclaimed the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule. It was adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This pivotal document articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and outlined the philosophical foundations of a new nation, emphasizing the rights of the people and the principles of individual liberty and self-governance.

The stated ideals within the Declaration, such as "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," have had a profound influence on democratic movements around the world. The Declaration marked the formal beginning of the United States as an independent nation and remains a cornerstone of American identity and values.

In contrast, the Constitution serves as the foundational legal document that established the framework of government for the United States, while the Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual rights. The Federalist Papers are a collection of writings that advocate for the ratification of the Constitution but do not play a role in declaring independence. Each of these documents has its own significance in American history, but only the Declaration of Independence directly asserts the colonies' new status as a separate nation.