Which document announced America's independence from Britain?

The document that announced America's independence from Britain is the Declaration of Independence. This pivotal document, adopted on July 4, 1776, formally proclaimed the thirteen colonies' separation from British rule. It articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and expressed the philosophical underpinnings of democracy, including the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration of Independence not only served as a statement of intent but also galvanized support for the revolutionary cause both within the colonies and internationally.

The Constitution, while a foundational legal document that established the framework of the U.S. government, was created later, in 1787, to replace the Articles of Confederation. The Articles themselves were an early attempt at governance that was ultimately found inadequate. Finally, the Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791, comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual freedoms and rights, and it does not address independence from Britain directly. Thus, the Declaration of Independence distinctly marks the formal break from British authority.