What role did Thomas Jefferson play in relation to the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson is regarded primarily as the main author of the Declaration of Independence, which he drafted in June 1776. His role involved articulating the colonies' reasons for seeking independence from British rule, expressing Enlightenment ideals about government, rights, and the principles of liberty and equality. Jefferson's eloquent writing and philosophical insights provided the foundational text that not only justified the break from Britain but also set forth the foundational principles of democracy that resonate through American history.

While Jefferson did indeed sign the document and was a loyal advocate for its principles, his primary significance lies in being the principal architect of its content. His ideas influenced not just the Declaration but also the course of American governance and values in the years that followed. The other choices, while relevant in different contexts or for different figures, do not accurately reflect Jefferson's most impactful contribution to the Declaration of Independence.