What was the objective of writing the Declaration of Independence? Examining primary sources allows us to discover much more than what is presented in history books. I was pleased to find this quote from Thomas Jefferson in a letter to Henry Lee, which discusses the objective of the Declaration. My explanation follows the letter.
Letter to Henry Lee — 1825
This was the object of the Declaration of Independence.
Not to find out new principles, or new arguments, never before
thought of, not merely to say things which had never been said
before; but to place before mankind the common sense of the
subject, in terms so plain and firm as to command their assent,
and to justify ourselves in the independent stand we are
compelled to take. Neither aiming at originality of principle or
sentiment, nor yet copied from any particular and previous
writing, it was intended to be an expression of the American
mind, and to give to that expression the proper tone and spirit
called for by the occasion.
What Was Our Founders’ Intent?
First, we learn about the intent behind declaring independence (and what it was not). Jefferson tells us that the Founders were not trying to “reinvent the wheel.” They were not trying to display their intellect. Instead, it was to articulate the common sense of why America should become a free and independent nation in plain language so all Americans and the rest of the world could understand America’s objective in no uncertain terms.
Second, Jefferson didn’t claim a novel idea. He wasn’t trying to plagiarize historical writings or become the most influential person of his time. His goal was to express the American mind. At that time, I don’t believe having an “American mind” was in the British lexicon, let alone other world powers. The world was soon to discover what having an “American mind” looked like.
Third, Jefferson tells Lee that it was essential to use the proper tone for the occasion. It’s a universal truth that it’s not always what you say, but how you say it. Jefferson explains that they were expressing themselves with “a decent respect to the opinions of mankind.” That phrase appears in the opening paragraph of the Declaration of Independence.
Why Should We Care?
There are so many lessons for us in this short portion of Jefferson’s letter. Here are two:
Jefferson conveys the importance of developing “an American mind.” We need to think like Americans with a spirit of independence. He does so with great humility, not with the intent of making a name for himself.
Truly great people don’t set out to make a name for themselves. Instead, they rise to the occasion with courage and bravery, doing what needs to be done. Such was the attitude of our Founders when they declared independence.
What additional lessons come to your mind as you read through Thomas Jefferson’s communication with Henry Lee?
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. 🇺🇸
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