Which document declared the colonies' independence from Britain?

The Declaration of Independence is the document that officially proclaimed the American colonies' separation from British rule. Adopted on July 4, 1776, it articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and laid out the philosophical foundations for independence, emphasizing the principles of individual rights and government by consent of the governed. The document asserted that all men are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This declaration not only marked a pivotal moment in American history but also inspired future movements for democracy and freedom around the world. The other choices, such as The Constitution and The Articles of Confederation, were created later to establish a framework for governance, while The Federalist Papers served to promote ratification of The Constitution rather than declaring independence.