On July 4, 1776, it became evident to our forefathers that the United States of America needed to become an independent country. The government of England has committed many injustices toward the new colonies and a change was imperative. The Declaration of Independence was written by John Hancock and many others as a response to this situation. In this document, they state certain truths to be self-evident, including:

• All men are created equal
• All have right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
• The government derives power from the people

The English government committed three major injustices:

1. Did not allow the people to govern themselves
2. Stationed English soldiers during a time of peace
3. Cut off settler's trade with other parts of the world