Which document declared the United States' independence from Britain?

The document that declared the United States' independence from Britain is the Declaration of Independence. Adopted on July 4, 1776, this foundational document was crafted by Thomas Jefferson, along with other members of the Continental Congress. It articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and expressed the philosophical underpinnings of the new nation, emphasizing the principles of individual rights and the idea that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed.

In contrast, the Constitution serves as the framework for the government of the United States, outlining the structure and operation of the federal system. The Bill of Rights, which includes the first ten amendments to the Constitution, addresses specific rights and liberties but was created after independence had already been declared. Similarly, the Articles of Confederation were the first attempt at a national constitution but came into play after independence was declared, focusing on the organization of the government rather than the assertion of independence itself.