A leading figure in drafting the Declaration of Independence, recognized for his writing and intellectual contributions, though he was just one part of a larger committee. Jefferson's role as an enslaver and his relationship with Sally Hemings present complex moral questions for interpreters of the Declaration.

An influential delegate to the Continental Congress from Massachusetts and the second U.S. president, who corresponded prolifically and contributed to the intellectual and political groundwork for independence. His collaboration with Jefferson highlights the communal aspect of crafting the Declaration.

A Virginian statesman who played a pivotal role in the drive for independence by proposing the motion for separation from Britain during the Continental Congress. He was instrumental in dialogues that shaped revolutionary thought.

A delegate and diplomat from Pennsylvania who helped edit the Declaration of Independence. Franklin’s involvement reflects his significant role in the collaborative drafting process of the document.

A proponent of independence and secretary during the Continental Congress who inscribed the formal Declaration on parchment. His editorial input, particularly in punctuation, affected the document's interpretation.

A Maryland printer responsible for distributing printed copies of the Declaration, whose editorial decisions, such as capitalizing religious references, influenced how the document was read.

The British monarch whose rule and actions towards the American colonies were central issues prompting the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and the list of grievances within.

A 17th-century British philosopher whose ideas about government, rights, and human potential influenced the Founding Fathers and are discussed in the analysis of the Declaration’s themes.