We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with inherent and inalienable Rights; that among these, are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness; that to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) American political philosopher, polymath, statesman, US President (1801-09)
“Declaration of Independence” (4 Jul 1776)
    (Source)

As modified and approved by the Continental Congress. Compare to Jefferson's original draft.

 
Added on 10-Jan-13 | Last updated 4-Jul-22
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  1. Pingback: Jefferson, Thomas - Declaration of Independence, "Original Rough Draught" (Jun 1776) | WIST

  2. Pingback: Heinlein, Robert A. - Stranger in a Strange Land, "His Maculate Origin," ch. 8 (1991 ed.) | WIST

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