The Declaration of Independence marks a pivotal moment for Americans. It stands as a sacred text in the nation, known for its powerful claim of human equality. The famous line, “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,” reflects this sentiment.

This document is not only a declaration of values but a universal call for human freedom. President Gerald Ford once described it as the Polaris of the political order, emphasizing its role as a constant guide for freedom. He stated that it remains unchanged because it conveys eternal moral truths.

From a historical perspective, the Declaration has a more intricate story. Thomas Jefferson’s original purpose was not solely to affirm human equality but to express ideas on political authority and support the right to revolution. Influenced by Enlightenment thinkers, such as John Locke, it was a statement about governmental foundations rather than emancipation.

Historian Pauline Maier highlighted that the “self-evident” truths pertain to a time before government, where equality meant no one had inherent authority over others. This was a prevailing thought in Revolutionary America, evident in sermons, newspapers, and schoolbooks.

Thomas Paine, in his work “Common Sense,” supported this view. Written months before the Declaration, he argued that no person by birth could claim superiority, reinforcing the idea that equality should prevail.