Who was the main author of the Declaration of Independence?

The main author of the Declaration of Independence was Thomas Jefferson. His role was crucial as he was tasked with drafting the document that would formally proclaim the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule. Jefferson's eloquent writing and philosophical ideas about individual rights and government formed the foundation of the Declaration, which articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and laid out the principles of liberty and democracy.

While other Founding Fathers played significant roles in the independence movement, such as Benjamin Franklin, who was involved in diplomacy and support for the revolution; George Washington, who served as the commander of the Continental Army; and John Adams, who supported the Declaration and was a member of the committee that oversaw its creation, it was Jefferson's authorship that stands out. He poured much of his own ideology and beliefs into this seminal document, making it an enduring symbol of American values and governance.