What did the Declaration of Independence accomplish?

The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, primarily accomplished the formal announcement of the American colonies' separation from British rule. It articulated the colonies' desire to be free and independent states, outlining the philosophical justification for this decision, particularly the concepts of individual rights and government by consent. Through this document, the Founding Fathers declared to the world that they were no longer subject to British authority, setting the stage for the Revolutionary War and establishing the foundational ideals of the new nation.

The establishment of a new government and the creation of the Constitution occurred later, after the Revolutionary War had successfully achieved independence. Additionally, the Bill of Rights was ratified much later as an amendment to the Constitution, further emphasizing the distinction between the Declaration's primary function and these other historical milestones. Therefore, the accurate understanding of the Declaration of Independence centers on its role in announcing the colonies' intent to break away from Great Britain.