Who is credited with writing the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson is credited with writing the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. Jefferson was chosen to draft the document due to his strong writing skills and clear articulation of the Enlightenment ideas of liberty, democracy, and individual rights. His composition laid out the colonies' grievances against King George III and articulated the fundamental principles of equality and the rights of individuals to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The other figures played significant roles in the American Revolution and the founding of the nation, but they were not the primary author of this pivotal document. George Washington was the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and later became the first president. Benjamin Franklin was instrumental in obtaining French support for the revolution and contributed to the Continental Congress but was not the drafter of the Declaration. John Adams, though a strong advocate for independence and a member of the drafting committee, was not the principal author. Instead, Adams played a crucial role in the discussion and promotion of the Declaration, supporting Jefferson's work throughout the process.