Answer:
The first draft of the Declaration of Independence was written by Thomas Jefferson.
Thomas Jefferson, a prominent Founding Father and the third President of the United States, is widely recognized as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. He was chosen by the Second Continental Congress to draft this historic document, which would serve as a formal declaration of the American colonies' intention to break away from British rule.
Jefferson began working on the draft in June 1776, drawing inspiration from various sources such as Enlightenment philosophy and previous declarations of rights. His eloquent and powerful words would come to define the principles and ideals upon which the United States was founded.
In his draft, Jefferson outlined the grievances of the American colonists against King George III and asserted their natural rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. He argued that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed and that it is the right of the people to alter or abolish a government that becomes destructive to these ends.
After completing his initial draft, Jefferson submitted it to John Adams and Benjamin Franklin for their input and suggestions. They made some minor revisions before presenting it to Congress on June 28, 1776. The document underwent further revisions and debates before being officially adopted on July 4, 1776.
It is important to note that while Thomas Jefferson is credited as the primary author, he did not work in isolation. The ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence were influenced by other thinkers and writers of the time, including John Locke and his concept of natural rights.
In conclusion, Thomas Jefferson wrote the first draft of the Declaration of Independence, which remains one of the most significant documents in American history.
Step-by-step explanation: