The Declaration of Independence was signed 236 years ago and announced on the 4th of July back in 1776. Not only did this document formally mark the transition from a group of colonies under British rule to the start of an independent cohesive nation, but it put forth concepts that, up to that time, were largely debated on a philisophical level. The Declaration contains perhaps the most perfect sentence ever put forth by mankind: "We hold these truths to be self-evident - that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights - that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness..." Since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Americans have made sacrifices, both here and abroad, on behalf of these freedoms to make sure these words mean something. While the Constitution remains the brains of this nation, it is the Declaration of Independence that is its heart.
If it has been awhile since you have read it, we invite you to click the link in our related links section on the bottom right of this page and take a few moments to renew the spirit of this great document - in our opinion, it is truly what the 4th of July is about. To all of our readers, as you celebrate the freedoms of the United States of America - have a great 4th of July. Enjoy the fireworks, hot dogs, barbeque and spending time with friends and family.