Alongside the Constitution of the United States, the Declaration of Independence stands as one of the two most important documents in American history. As familiar as the declaration is to most students of history, the intentions of its author, the manner in which it was composed, and even the day upon which it was finalized and signed are matters of some contention among scholars. Consider the well-known content of the document as well as the familiar assumptions about its place in American history, and think about the ways in which new interpretations may alter your understanding of the Declaration of Independence and other historical documents.

Investigate the source using the zoom and navigational tools in the Flash player and then answer the questions below.

1			As you read this document, pay close attention to the language and style that were used. Was this document written effectively?
2			The document lists "a long train of abuses and usurpations." What were these abuses, specifically, and why did the colonists think they were serious enough to warrant a revolution?
3			In what ways has the Declaration of Independence been re-interpreted since it was originally written?