Who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted on July 4, 1776. He was chosen for this important task by the Continental Congress due to his eloquence, writing skills, and the confidence that leaders like John Adams had in his abilities. Jefferson’s draft articulated the colonies' reasons for seeking independence from British rule and laid down the foundational principles of democracy, emphasizing individual rights and government by consent of the governed. His ideas and wording had a profound impact on the shaping of the document, making him central to its creation.

The other figures mentioned played significant roles in the American Revolution and in the founding of the United States, but they were not the primary authors of the Declaration itself. George Washington, for example, was the commander of the Continental Army, while Benjamin Franklin contributed to the revolution in various ways, including diplomacy. John Adams was a key advocate for independence and supported Jefferson's efforts, but he did not draft the document.