The Declaration of Independence and the Struggle for Equality DBQ

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“The Declaration of Independence and the Struggle for Equality DBQ” “In what way and to what extent does the Declaration of Independence serve as a benchmark for the actions of disenfranchised or otherwise oppressed citizens of the United States of America?” The Declaration of Independence, since July 4th, 1776, has continued to always become a guideline to protect those who are oppressed. “We hold these Truths to be self-evident, “that all Men are created equal,” that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,”” (Doc. A) sets the standards on what the United States of America is all about; equality. From the Report of American Horse by D.F. Royer on November 27, 1890 to the “Reminder Day” for Homosexual Rights on July 4, 1968, the Declaration of Independence continues to be the anchor document for many other documents to support those who are tyrannized from their rights. In the Constitution of the Pennsylvania Society for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery and the Relief of Free Negroes Unlawfully Held in Bondage of 1787, President of the Society, Benjamin Franklin states, “It having pleased the Creator of the world, to make of one flesh, all the children of men – it becomes them to consult and promote each other’s happiness, as members of the same family, however diversified they may be, by color, situation, religion, or different states of society.” (Doc. B). Mr. Franklin talks about how if we are to please God, we all need to act as one huge family despite whatever race, religion, financial income, etc. Throughout Document B, Benjamin Franklin continues to speak that a Christian’s obligation should extend their power to everyone and express the true meaning of freedom. “And who acknowledge the oblig... ... middle of paper ... ...new the battle which their fathers began” (Doc. F). Overall, the Declaration of Independence, drafted by the United States of America, has not only become an anchor to protect those against oppression and tyranny, but from others within this precious country, as well as those outside. With the Declaration of Independence, we have motivated other nations to take action against their very own tyranny, whether it be the Egyptians in their revolution against their corrupt government in modern day or the French in the mid to late 1800s against their very own corrupt monarchy against King Louis and his family. Not only has it become a motivator, but a reminder on how we should appreciate our values and morals today, and take note on every action we take against certain issues on our country; whether the issue is on abortion or gay marriage. All Men are Created Equally.

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