Who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence?

The primary author of the Declaration of Independence was Thomas Jefferson. In 1776, Jefferson was chosen to draft the document due to his eloquent writing style and strong beliefs in individual liberties and democratic principles. He composed the Declaration as a formal statement of the colonies' intention to separate from British rule, outlining their grievances against King George III and asserting the fundamental rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, and has since become a symbol of American democracy and a foundational text in the history of the United States. Jefferson's work has had a lasting impact on democratic thought and has inspired various movements for independence and human rights worldwide.