What document declared American independence from Britain?

The Declaration of Independence is the document that formally announced the American colonies' separation from British rule. Adopted on July 4, 1776, it was a pivotal moment in American history, articulating the colonies' grievances against King George III and asserting the inherent rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This declaration was not only a statement of independence but also established the philosophical foundation of American democracy, asserting that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed.

In contrast, The Constitution is the foundational legal document that outlines the structure of the U.S. government, and it was created later, in 1787. The Emancipation Proclamation was an executive order issued by President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, aimed at freeing slaves in the Confederate states, and it does not pertain to independence from Britain. The Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, ensuring specific freedoms and protections for individuals in the United States, but it is not related to the declaration of independence.