Which figure drafted the Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence was primarily drafted by Thomas Jefferson in 1776. He was selected by the Continental Congress to lead the committee tasked with creating the document, which was intended to formally declare the American colonies’ intention to separate from British rule. Jefferson’s eloquent writing captured the principles of individual liberty and government by consent, which were revolutionary ideas at the time.

Although other prominent figures like John Adams and Benjamin Franklin contributed to the discussions and revisions of the document, Jefferson is recognized for articulating the core ideals and justifications for independence within the text itself. His ability to convey the colonies' grievances against King George III and to advocate for the rights of individuals made him the central figure in the authorship of the Declaration.