Final answer:
After declaring their countries independent nations, leaders of independence movements took various actions, such as creating new governments and joining the world community as independent states.
Step-by-step explanation:
After declaring their countries independent nations, the leaders of independence movements took various actions depending on the specific context. For example, in the case of the American Revolution, the American colonies transitioned to independent republics or states. They overthrew royal authority and set up provincial congresses to fill the void left by the departing British governments. They then worked to create lasting governments that would promote order and independence. Similarly, when other nations gained independence, they joined the world community as independent states, negotiated new agreements, and contributed to redrawing maps.