The Declaration of Independence has been divided by some historians into three parts: declaring Independence, rejecting the British government, and providing a blueprint for the new United States. Although the Declaration of Independence obviously declares independence from the British government, it does not provide a blueprint for the the United States government. The Declaration does not mention the branches of the new government, check and balances, or any specifics on how the government is to be run. The blueprints for the new United States government is found in the Constitution, which was made years later. However, the Declaration lists the general powers that the colonies assume as a sovereign state. Those powers are the same as all independent states have, including the power to go to war, make peace, create alliances, and establish commerce. The Declaration of Independence can be broken down into three parts. The first is the establishment of the rights of man and the responsibility of the government. The second list the offenses of King George and the British government. Finally, the third is the actual declaration of separation from British rule. …show more content…
It clearly explains the rights and privileges that they believe are given to all by God. Key ideas are the right of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” and that it is the government role to protect these rights. Also key in the opening paragraphs is the idea that the government receives its power by the “consent of the governed” and that people have the right to alter or change the government. However, they make it clear this should not be done without strong and compelling