Sunday, October 19, 2008

What is the fifth part of the Declaration Of Independence?

On July 4 1776, the Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence. This document is divided into six parts and, as a whole, outlines why America wanted to sever all ties with Britain. 


The fifth part of the Declaration is entitled, "The Statement of Independence," and declares that the 13 colonies are now completely separate from Britain and are free and independent states. It also gives the colonies the right to function as an independent nation, for example, with the power to wage war and trade with other countries. It also states that colonists pledge to support each other, under the protection of God, in the move towards complete independence.


Here are the exact words of the fifth part: 


We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.

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