Who was the main writer of the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson is recognized as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. In 1776, he was tasked with drafting the document that would formally announce the American colonies' separation from British rule. Jefferson's eloquent writing and ability to articulate the philosophical underpinnings of democracy and individual rights, heavily influenced by Enlightenment thinkers, made the Declaration a foundational text in American history.

His use of language in expressing the ideals of liberty, equality, and the right to self-governance was pivotal in rallying support for independence. While other figures such as Benjamin Franklin and John Adams played significant roles in the independence movement and contributed to the discussions and revisions of the document, it was Jefferson who synthesized these ideas into the final wording, making him the key figure associated with the creation of the Declaration.