The Declaration of Independence: Origins, Purpose, and Legacy

Short and powerful at just 1,310 words, the Declaration of Independence remains one of the most influential and least fully understood documents in history. Drafted collectively by a committee of fifty, it blends political theory and literary artistry to announce a nation’s birth and justify its separation. Its meaning, audience, and impact have inspired debate for over two centuries. In this course, we examine the Declaration’s origins, its complex purpose, and its extraordinary global legacy. We also explore how the document was conceived, how it was received in its own time, and why its words continue to resonate today. This course will be recorded. Students will have access to the video for 30 days.